Patent Publication Number: US-2022233107-A1

Title: System for monitoring body chemistry

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 17/156,520, filed Jan. 22, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/876,678, filed Jan. 22, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/412,229, filed Jan. 23, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/377,318, filed Dec. 13, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/657,973, filed Mar. 13, 2015, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/025,174, filed Jul. 16, 2014, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/012,874, filed Jun. 16, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/952,594, filed Mar. 13, 2014, all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This invention relates generally to the biometric device field, and more specifically to a new and useful system for monitoring body chemistry in the biometric device field. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Biomonitoring devices are commonly used, particularly by health-conscious individuals and individuals diagnosed with ailments, to monitor body chemistry. Such biomonitoring devices perform the tasks of determining an analyte level in a user&#39;s body, and providing information regarding the analyte level to a user; however, these current biomonitoring devices typically convey information to users that is limited in detail, intermittent, and prompted by the command of the user. Such biomonitoring devices, including blood glucose meters, are also inappropriate for many applications outside of intermittent use, and place significant burdens on users (e.g., in requiring finger sticks, in requiring lancing, etc.) due to design and manufacture considerations. Additionally, current devices are configured to analyze one or a limited number of analytes contributing to overall body chemistry, due to limitations of sensors used in current biomonitoring devices. 
     There is thus a need in the biometric device field to create a new and useful system for monitoring body chemistry. This invention provides such a new and useful system. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG. 1  depicts elements of an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 2A and 2B  depict embodiments of a microsensor patch, a transmitting unit, a housing, and an array of filaments in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 2C  depict a variation of electrodes in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 3A-3H  depict examples of filament variations in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 4  depicts an embodiment of an electronics subsystem in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  depict examples of a portion of an electronics subsystem in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 6A-6B  depict examples of power management modules in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 7  depicts a variation of an impedance detection module in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 8  depicts an example of an applied voltage waveform in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 9  depicts a variation of a housing in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 10A-10B  depict specific examples of a housing in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 10C  depicts a specific portion of a housing in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 11A-11B  depict examples of user interfaces implemented using a software module in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 12A  depicts a notification module of an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 12B-12C  depict specific examples of notifications in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 13  depicts communication between a processing subsystem and a storage module in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 14A-14C  depict examples of an arch application method and an end-to-end application method, respectively, in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 15A-15B  depict variations of a patch applicator in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 16A-16D  depict a first specific example of a patch applicator in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 17  depicts a second specific example of a patch applicator in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIGS. 18A-18B  depict a specific example of a base station in an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; 
         FIG. 19  depicts operation modes of components of an embodiment of a system for monitoring body chemistry; and 
         FIG. 20  depicts an embodiment of a method for monitoring body chemistry. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The following description of the preferred embodiments of the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these preferred embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use this invention. 
     1. System 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , an embodiment of the system  100  for monitoring body chemistry of a user comprises a housing  190  that supports a microsensor  116  and an electronics subsystem  120  in communication with the microsensor  116 ; and a processing subsystem  160  configured to generate an analysis indicative of an analyte parameter of the user, wherein the analysis is derived from a signal stream of the microsensor and an impedance signal from the electronics subsystem. In more detail, the housing  190 , microsensor  116 , and the electronics subsystem  120  can be configured as a microsensor patch  110  configured to sense analyte levels in a user&#39;s body, wherein the electronics subsystem includes a signal conditioning module  122 , a power management module  124 , a storage module  127 , and a transmitting unit  130  in communication with the processing subsystem  160  and/or an electronic device (e.g., mobile computing device  150 ) associated with the user. 
     In some variations, the system  100  can further include a patch applicator  180  configured to facilitate application of the microsensor patch  110  onto the body of a user in a reliable manner. The system  100  functions to provide continuous monitoring of a user&#39;s body chemistry through reception and processing of signals associated with one or more analytes present in the body of the user, and to provide an analysis of the user&#39;s body chemistry to the user and/or an entity (e.g., health care professional, caretaker, relative, friend, acquaintance, etc.) associated with the user. Alternatively, the system  100  can function to detect a user&#39;s body chemistry upon the user&#39;s request or sporadically, and/or can provide an analysis of the user&#39;s body chemistry only to the user. 
     The system  100  is configured to be worn by the patient outside of a clinical (e.g., hospital) or research (e.g., laboratory) setting, such that the patient can be in a non-contrived environment as he or she is interfacing with the microsensor patch  110  for monitoring of body chemistry. Furthermore, elements of the system  100  can be reusable or disposable (e.g., based upon modularity of the system  100 ), or the entire system  100  can be configured to be disposable. In one specific example, the system  100  adheres to the patient (thus not compelling the patient to hold any part of the system  100  by hand), has a low profile that conforms to the patient, and is configured to receive and transmit signals indicative of body chemistry parameters of the user, for downstream analysis and information transfer to the user. Alternatively, the system  100  can be substantially non-portable, non-wearable, and/or intended for use in a clinical or research setting. 
     As indicated above and further below, elements of the system can be implemented on one or more computer networks, computer systems, or applications servers, etc. The computer system(s) can comprise one or more of: a cloud-based computer, a mainframe computer system, a grid-computer system, or any other suitable computer system, and the computer system can support collection of data from a wearable device and/or a base station, processing of these data, and transmission of alerts, notifications, and/or user interface updates to one or more electronic computing devices (e.g., mobile computing device, wrist-borne mobile computing device, head-mounted mobile computing device, etc.) linked to or affiliated with an account of the user. For example, the computer system can receive signals indicative of one or more analyte parameters of the user and distribute alerts and notifications over a distributed network, such as over a cellular network or over an Internet connection. In this example, the computer system can upload alerts and notifications to a native body chemistry monitoring application including the user interface and executing on a mobile computing device associated with the user. 
     Additionally or alternatively, an electronic computing device (e.g., a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a tablet, a smartphone, a smart watch, a smart eyewear accessory, a personal data assistant, etc.) associated with the system (e.g., with the account of the user) can maintain the account of the user, create and maintain a user-specific model within the account, and execute a native body chemistry monitoring application (including the user interface) with functions including one or more of: generating alerts or notifications, receiving alerts or notifications, displaying alerts or notifications, updating predictions of changes in state of the user, and any other suitable function that enhances body chemistry monitoring of the user. The system  100  is preferably configured to implement at least a portion of the method  200  described in Section 2 below; however, the system  100  can additionally or alternatively be configured to implement any other suitable method. 
     1.1 System—Microsensor Patch 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the microsensor patch  110  comprises a microsensor  116  and an electronics subsystem  120  in communication with the microsensor  116 , wherein the microsensor  116  and the electronics subsystem  120  are supported by a housing  190 . The microsensor patch no can be configured to detect and sense only a single analyte; however, the microsensor patch no can alternatively be configured to detect and sense multiple analytes in order to provide an analysis based on multiple analytes. Preferably, the microsensor patch no is configured to be disposable; however, the microsensor patch no can alternatively be configured to be reusable for any suitable duration or number of uses. In one variation, the microsensor patch no is configured to be a semi-permanent component (e.g., wearable for a week before replacement, wearable for a month before replacement, etc.) configured to sense the user&#39;s body chemistry with minimal signal degradation for at a least a week post-coupling of the microsensor patch no to the body of the user. However, in another variation, the microsensor patch no can be configured to be a permanent component configured to permanently couple to a user. Modularity of the microsensor patch  110  is described in further detail below. 
     1.1.1 System—Microsensor 
     The microsensor  116  of the microsensor patch no preferably comprises an array of filaments  117 , as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2A , and functions to penetrate skin of the user in order to sense one or more analytes characterizing the user&#39;s body chemistry. Preferably, the array of filaments  117  is configured to penetrate the user&#39;s stratum corneum (i.e., an outer skin layer) in order to sense analytes within interstitial (extracellular) fluid, which is throughout the body; however, the array of filaments  117  can be configured to penetrate the user&#39;s skin to any other suitable depth. For instance, the microsensor  116  can alternatively be configured to penetrate deeper layers, or various depth layers of a user&#39;s skin in order to sense analytes within any appropriate bodily fluid of the user. The microsensor  116  can be configured to sense analytes/ions characterizing a user&#39;s body chemistry using a potentiometric measurement (e.g., for small analytes including potassium, sodium calcium, etc.), using an amperometric measurement (e.g., for large analytes including glucose, lactic acid, creatinine, etc.), using a conductometric measurement, and/or using any other suitable measurement. 
     Preferably, sensed analytes result in a signal (e.g., voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, impedance, gravimetric, etc.) detectable by the electronics subsystem  120  in communication with the microsensor  116 ; however, analyte sensing can comprise any other appropriate mechanism using the microsensor  116 . As mentioned earlier, the microsensor  116  is also preferably integrated with the electronics subsystem  120 . In a first variation, the microsensor  116  is coupled to the semiconductor architecture of the electronics subsystem  120  (e.g., the microsensor  116  is coupled to an integrated circuit comprising the electronics subsystem  120 ), in a second variation, the microsensor  116  is more closely integrated into the semiconductor architecture of the electronics subsystem  120  (e.g., there is closer integration between the microsensor  116  and an integrated circuit including the electronics subsystem  120 ), and in a third variation, the microsensor  116  and the electronics subsystem  120  are constructed in a system-on-a-chip fashion (e.g., all components are integrated into a single chip). As such, in some variations, filaments the array of filaments  117  of the microsensor  116  can be directly or indirectly integrated with electronics components, such that preprocessing of a signal from the microsensor  116  can be performed using the electronics components (e.g., of the array of filaments  117 , of the electronics subsystem  120 ) prior to or after transmitting signals to the electronics subsystem  120  (e.g., to an analog front end, to an analog to digital converter). The electronics components can be coupled to a filament substrate, or otherwise integrated with the filaments in any suitable fashion (e.g., wired, using a contact pad, etc.). Alternatively, the electronics components can be fully integrated into the electronics subsystem  120  and configured to communicate with the microsensor  116 , or the electronics components can be split between the microsensor and the electronics subsystem  120 . The microsensor  116  can, however, comprise any other suitable architecture or configuration. 
     The microsensor  116  preferably senses analyte parameters using the array of filaments  117 , such that absolute values of specific analytes/ions can be detected and analyzed. The microsensor  116  can additionally be configured to sense analyte parameters using the array of filaments  117 , such that changes in values of specific analyte/ion parameters or derivatives thereof (e.g., trends in values of a parameter, slopes of curves characterizing a trend in a parameter vs. another parameter, areas under curves characterizing a trend, a duration of time spent within a certain parameter range, etc.) can be detected and analyzed. In one variation, sensing by the microsensor  116  is achieved at a low frequency at discrete time points (e.g., every minute, or every hour), and in another variation, sensing by the microsensor  116  is achieved substantially continuously at a high frequency (e.g., every picosecond, every millisecond, every second). In one specific example for blood chemistry analysis, the array of filaments  117  of the microsensor  116  is configured to sense one or more of: electrolytes, glucose, bicarbonate, creatinine, body urea nitrogen (BUN), sodium, iodide, iodine and potassium of a user&#39;s blood chemistry. In another specific example, the array of filaments  117  of the microsensor  116  is configured to sense at least one of biomarkers, cell count, hormone levels, alcohol content, gases (e.g. carbon dioxide, oxygen, etc.), drug concentrations/metabolism, pH and analytes within a user&#39;s body fluid. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2A , the array of filaments  117  is preferably located at the base surface of the microsensor patch  110 , and functions to interface directly with a user in a transdermal manner (e.g., in accessing interstitial fluid) in order to sense at least one analyte/ion characterizing the user&#39;s body chemistry. The array of filaments  117  is preferably arranged in a uniform pattern with a specified density optimized to effectively penetrate a user&#39;s skin and provide an appropriate signal, while minimizing pain to the user. Additionally, the array of filaments  117  can be arranged in a manner to optimize coupling to the user, such that the microsensor firmly couples to the user over the lifetime usage of the system. For example, the filaments  118  can comprise several pieces and/or be attached to a flexible base to allow the array of filaments  117  to conform to a user&#39;s body. In one variation, the array of filaments  117  is arranged in a rectangular pattern, and in another variation, the array of filaments  117  is arranged in a circular or ellipsoid pattern. However, in other variations, the array of filaments  117  can be arranged in any other suitable manner (e.g., a random arrangement). The array of filaments  117  can also be configured to facilitate coupling to a user, by comprising filaments of different lengths or geometries. Having filaments  118  of different lengths can further function to allow measurement of different ions/analytes at different depths of penetration (e.g., a filament with a first length can sense one analyte at a first depth, and a filament with a second length can sense another analyte at a second depth). The array of filaments  117  can also comprise filaments  118  of different geometries (e.g., height, diameter) to facilitate sensing of analytes/ions at lower or higher concentrations. In one specific example, the array of filaments  117  is arranged at a density of 100 filaments per square centimeter and each filament  118  in the array of filaments  117  has a length of 250-350 microns, which allows appropriate levels of detection, coupling to a user, and pain experienced by the user. 
     Each filament  118  in the array of filaments  117  preferably functions to sense a single analyte; however, each filament  118  in the array of filaments  117  can additionally be configured to sense more than one analyte. Furthermore, the array of filaments  117  can be further configured, such that a subarray of the array of filaments  117  functions as a single sensor configured to sense a particular analyte or biomarker, as shown in  FIG. 2B . Furthermore, any configuration of subarrays of the array of filaments  117  can additionally or alternatively be configured as one or more of: a working electrode, a counter electrode (i.e., auxiliary electrode), and a reference electrode, for instance, in a two-electrode cell, a three-electrode cell, or a more-than-three-electrode cell. In one variation, as shown in  FIG. 2C , the array of filaments  117  of the microsensor  116  is configured as a first working electrode  11  (corresponding to a first subarray of filaments), a second working electrode  12  (corresponding to a second subarray of filaments), a counter electrode  13  (corresponding to a third subarray of filaments), and a reference electrode  14  (corresponding to a fourth subarray of filaments). In a specific example of this variation, each subarray associated with the first working electrode  11 , the second working electrode  12 , the counter electrode  13 , and the reference electrode  14 , respectively, is substantially identical in morphology (e.g., area of the microsensor). Furthermore, in the specific example, each subarray has a square footprint, and the subarrays are configured in a 2×2 arrangement to define a larger square footprint. However, the array of filaments  117  can be configured as one or more of: a working electrode, a counter electrode, and a reference electrode in any other suitable manner, and can furthermore have any other suitable morphology(ies) and/or configuration relative to each other. 
     Additionally or alternatively, any subarray of the array of filaments  117  can be configured to release biomaterials (e.g., therapeutic substances, drugs) for treating a medical condition of a user (e.g., as facilitated by biomaterial dissolution in interstitial fluid). Multiple subarrays of the array of filaments can then be configured to sense different analytes/biomarkers, or the same analyte/biomarker. Furthermore, a subarray or a single filament  118  of the array of filaments  117  can be configured as a ground region of the microsensor  116 , such that signals generated by the microsensor  116  in response to analyte detection can be normalized by the signals generated by the subarray or single filament  118  serving as a ground region. Preferably, all subarrays of the array of filaments  117  are substantially equal in size and density; however, each subarray of the array of filaments  117  can alternatively be optimized to maximize signal generation and detection in response to a specific analyte. In an example, analytes that are known to have a lower concentration within a user&#39;s body fluid can correspond to a larger subarray of the array of filaments  117 . In another example, analytes that are known to have a higher concentration within a user&#39;s body fluid can correspond to a smaller subarray of the array of filaments  117 . In one extreme example, an entire array of filaments can be configured to sense a single analyte, such that the microsensor  116  and microsensor patch  110  is configured to sense and detect only one analyte. In another extreme example, each single filament in an array can be configured to detect a single analyte allowing for detection of multiple analytes within a single array (e.g., for a 100-filament array, 100 analytes can be tested). 
     In other variations, a subarray of the array of filaments  117  can also be used to detect other physiologically relevant parameters, such as electrophysiological signals (e.g., electrocardiogram, electroencephalogram), body temperature, respiration, and skin impedance change (e.g., to measure hydration state or inflammatory response). In these other variations, the subarray can be dedicated to measuring these physiologically relevant parameters, which could be combined with analyte/ion parameter measurements in order to provide meaningful information to a user. As an example, the simultaneous measurement of potassium levels and electrocardiogram measurements, enabled by subarrays of the array of filaments  117 , can provide a more complete diagnosis of cardiovascular problems or events than either measurement by itself. 
     A filament  118  of the array of filaments can comprise one or more of: a substrate core, the substrate core including a base end coupled to the substrate, a columnar protrusion having a proximal portion coupled to the base end and a distal portion, and a tip region coupled to the distal portion of the columnar protrusion and that facilitates access to the body fluid of the user; a conductive layer, isolated to the tip region of the substrate core and isolated away from the base end and the columnar protrusion as an active region that enables transmission of electronic signals generated upon detection of an analyte; an insulating layer ensheathing the columnar protrusion and base end of the substrate core and exposing a portion of the conductive layer, thereby defining a boundary of the active region; a sensing layer, in communication with the active region, characterized by reversible redox behavior for transduction of an ionic concentration of the analyte into an electronic signal; an intermediate selective layer superficial to the conductive layer and deeper than the sensing layer, relative to a most distal point of the tip region of the filament, that facilitates detection of the analyte; an intermediate protective layer, superficial to the intermediate selective layer, including a functional compound that promotes generation of a protective barrier; and a selective coating superficial to the intermediate protective layer, having a distribution of molecules that respond to presence of the analyte, superficial to the sensing layer. Thus, a filament can comprise one or more regions, morphologies (examples of which are shown in  FIGS. 3A-3H , with elements  118   a - 118   h ), compositions, and/or configurations as described in U.S. Pub. No. 2014/0275897, entitled “On-Body Microsensor for Biomonitoring” and filed on 14 Mar. 2014 and/or U.S. App. No. 62/025,174, and entitled “System for Monitoring Body Chemistry” and filed on 16 Jul. 2014, which are each incorporated herein in their entirety by this reference. However, the filament can additionally or alternatively comprise any other suitable region, composition, morphology, and/or configuration. 
     1.1.2 System—Electronics Subsystem 
     The electronics subsystem  120  functions to receive analog signals from the microsensor  116  and to convert them into digital signals to be processed by a microprocessor  113  of the electronics subsystem  120 . In receiving signals, processing signals, regulating function, storing data, and/or transmitting data, the electronics subsystem  120  preferably includes a microprocessor  113  interfacing with one or more of: a signal conditioning module  122 , a power management module  124 , an impedance detection module  126 , a storage module  127 , and a transmitting unit  130 , as shown in  FIG. 4 . However, the electronics subsystem  120  can additionally or alternatively include any other suitable modules configured to facilitate signal reception, signal processing, and data transfer in an efficient manner. 
     The microprocessor  113  preferably includes memory and/or is coupled to a storage module  127  (e.g., flash storage). The microprocessor  113  can also include and/or be coupled to a clock/watchdog module (which can be incorporated into a microcontroller unit) for control of timing between different functions of the electronics subsystem  120 . The microprocessor  113  functions to process received signals, enable power distribution, enable impedance monitoring, and enable data transmission from the electronics subsystem  120 , in relation to other portions of the electronics subsystem  120  described below; however, the microprocessor  113  can alternatively or additionally be configured to perform any other suitable function. 
     The signal conditioning module  122  functions to preprocess signals detected and received using the microsensor  116 , thereby producing conditioned data prior to processing at the processing subsystem  160 . The signal conditioning module  122  can include one or more of: a signal multiplexer, an analog front end, an amplifier (e.g., a variable gain amplifier), a filter (e.g., low pass filter, high pass filter, band pass filter, etc.), an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), and a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). In one variation, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the signal conditioning module  122  comprises a multiplexer  22  in communication with the microsensor  116 , wherein the multiplexer  22  is configured to communicate an output to an analog front end  23  that interfaces the microsensor  116  with an ADC  24  by way of a variable gain amplifier  25  coupled to a filter  26 . In a specific example of this variation, the analog front end  23  circuitry is configured with a shifted potential different than a reference potential of the reference electrode  14  of the microsensor  116 , wherein the shifted potential is different (e.g., −2V to 2V different) from the reference potential of the reference electrode  14 . The configuration involving a difference between the shifted potential and the reference potential can allow the system  100  to drive redox reactions at the surface of the microsensor  110 . However, in alternative variations of the specific example, the analog front end (or any other element of the signal conditioning module  122 ) can be configured with any other suitable potential relative to potentials of electrodes of the microsensor  116 . 
     In more detail, the multiplexer  22  of the signal conditioning module  122  is preferably configured to receive multiple signals from the microsensor  116  (e.g., from subarrays of the array of filaments  117 ) and to forward the multiple signals received at multiple input lines in a single line at the analog front end. The multiplexer  22  thus increases an amount of data that can be transmitted within a given time constraint and/or bandwidth constraint. The number of input channels to the multiplexer  22  is preferably greater than or equal to the number of output channels of the microsensor  116 , and can have any suitable relationship between the number of input lines into the multiplexer  22 , select lines of the multiplexer, and output lines from the multiplexer  22 . In some variations, the multiplexer  22  can include a post-multiplexer gain in order to reduce capacitance values of the analog front end  23  coupled to the multiplexer  22 , and which can also be used to limit a number of amplifiers of the electronics  120 , such that a single amplifier is coupled to the multiplexer  22  (as opposed to amplifiers coupled to each individual sensor); however, the multiplexer  22  can alternatively not include any gain producing elements. In some variations, the multiplexer  22  can additionally or alternatively include high frequency and/or low frequency limiting elements. However, the multiplexer  22  can additionally or alternatively be configured in any other suitable manner. Furthermore, in alternative variations, the signal conditioning module  122  can omit a multiplexer and/or comprise or omit any other suitable element. 
     In variations, an interface between the microsensor  116  and other elements of the electronics subsystem  120  can be configured in a manner that prevents or otherwise reduces leakage current effects due to a redox potential of the microsensor  16  in relation to other elements electronics subsystem  120 . In a first configuration, a leakage current effect can result when a diode to ground (e.g., an ESD-diode to ground) is configured at an interface between the microsensor  116  and a multiplexer  22 , as shown in FIGURE SA. To prevent or otherwise reduce the leakage current effect, a set of diodes  70 , comprising a first diode  71  (e.g., a first EST-diode) and a second diode  72  (e.g., a second ESD-diode), configured at an interface between the microsensor  116  and the multiplexer  22  can be coupled to an element  73  (e.g., inductor, ferrite bead, resistor, etc.) that provides a high resistance to transient voltage spikes and directs any discharge through the second diode  72  to ground (instead of damaging the electronics subsystem  120 ), as shown in  FIG. 5B . The multiplexer  22  can also comprise a switch  75 , as shown in  FIG. 5C , that allows altering of potentials within the analog front end  23 . As shown in  FIG. 5C , eliminating a voltage difference (i.e., between Vs and V 2 ) eliminates or otherwise reduces leakage currents that can affect readings from the microsensor  110 . 
     The power management module  124  functions to provide dynamic modulation of power transfer to and from elements of the microsensor patch  110 , in a manner that enables efficient operation of the system  100 . Preferably, the power management module  124  interfaces with a battery  138  and elements of the transmitting unit  130  requiring power (e.g., by way of a microprocessor  113 , as shown in  FIG. 4 ), as described in further detail below. Additionally, the power management module  124  can further interface with an external processing element of the processing subsystem  160 , such that the power management module  124  can be at least partially implemented in firmware. In one such variation of the power management module  124 , wherein power management is achieved in firmware, the power management module  124  can be configured to anticipate power requirements of one or more elements, and to automatically operate at the highest demanded power mode (e.g., voltage) required, while never dropping below a minimum power level required by the elements. The power management module  124  can also facilitate efficient switching of components to an “off” state when not needed, in order to contribute to lower current consumption. Additionally or alternatively, the power management module  124  can be configured to dynamically trigger high current draw sensing components (e.g., the impedance detection module  126 ) to an “on” state, only when needed, by monitoring other system components (e.g., voltage of a counter electrode  13 ). 
     In an example, as shown in  FIG. 6A , a group of elements requiring different operating power levels can be coupled to the power management module  124 , and the power management module  124  can output power at the highest operating power level anticipated among the elements. Disparate elements can also set a minimum level of power they require, and as elements vary their power requirements, the power management module  124  can then automatically adjust power output such that a power level provided never drops below the lowest power level required. In this variation, elements of the microsensor patch  110  requiring power are thus dynamically provided with their highest demanded power level, to substantially limit energy wasted by the system  100  and to satisfy power level requirements of all running elements. In another variation of the power management module  124 , wherein power management is achieved in firmware, the power management module  124  can be configured to detect elements requiring power, and to automatically operate at the highest demanded power mode (e.g., voltage) required. In an example, a group of elements requiring different operating voltages can be detected, and the power management module  124  can output power at the highest operating voltage detected. As elements vary their voltage requirements, the power management module  124  can then automatically adjust voltage output to meet the highest demanded voltage. In this variation, elements of the microsensor patch  110  requiring power are thus dynamically provided with their highest demanded voltage, to substantially limit energy wasted by the system  100 . 
     In other variations, power management can be achieved by the power management module  124  without implementation in firmware, such that power management occurs in circuitry. In these other variations, an example of which is shown in  FIG. 6B , power management can comprise providing a set amount of power to elements requiring power, and completely eliminating power transfer to elements not requiring power. The system  100  can, however, comprise any other suitable variation of the power management modules  124 . 
     In relation to the power management module  124 , the electronics subsystem  120  can comprise a battery  138 , which functions to serve as a power source for the electronics subsystem  120 . The battery  138  is preferably coupled to a fuel gage  38  and a charging detection module  39 , each of which is coupled to the microprocessor  113  (described in further detail below). The battery  138  is preferably a lithium-ion battery that is configured to be rechargeable, but can be any appropriate rechargeable battery (e.g., nickel-cadmium, nickel metal hydride, or lithium-ion polymer). Alternatively, the battery  138  may not be a rechargeable battery. Preferably, the battery  138  is configured to have a profile with a low aspect ratio, contributing to a thin form factor of the microsensor patch  110 . However, the battery  138  can be configured to have any appropriate profile such that the battery  130  provides adequate power characteristics (e.g., cycle life, charging time, discharge time, etc.) for the system  100 . In some variations, a thin-film battery can be integrated with the microsensor patch  110  in order to facilitate substantially continuous analyte detection by the system  100 , independent of the microprocessor  113  and digital electronics of the electronics subsystem  120 . 
     In embodiments where the battery  138  is rechargeable, the electronics subsystem  120  can also comprise a charging coil  140  that functions to provide inductive charging for the battery  138 , and a charging detection module  39 , in communication with the microprocessor  113 , that enable detection of charging of the battery  138 . The charging coil  140  is preferably coupled to the battery  138  and converts energy from an electromagnetic field (e.g., provided by an element of a base station, as described in further detail below), into electrical energy to charge the battery  138 . Inductive charging provided by the charging coil  140  thus facilitates user mobility while interacting with the system  100 . In alternative variations, however, the charging coil  140  can altogether be omitted (e.g., in embodiments without a rechargeable battery), or replaced by a connection configured to provide wired charging of a rechargeable battery. 
     Additionally or alternatively, in some variations, the microsensor patch  110  can comprise a semi-active or fully-active power cell (e.g., implementing microelectromechanical system elements) that functions to absorb and/or release generated energy from anyone or more of: body heat of the user, body movement of the user (e.g., with piezoelectric elements, with capacitive elements), static voltage from the environment of the user, light in the environment of the user (e.g., using solar cells), magnetic energy flux, galvanic differentials, and any other suitable energy source to provide secondary backup energy for the system  100 . 
     The impedance detection module  126  is in communication with the signal conditioning module  122  and the power management module  124 , and functions to enable detection of a proper interface between the microsensor  116  and body fluid (e.g., interstitial fluid) of the user. In facilitating monitoring of impedance, the impedance detection module  126  can thus provide signals that indicate that the microsensor patch  110  is properly coupled to the user (e.g., interfacing with interstitial fluid and experiencing an ˜80% moisture environment) or improperly coupled to the user (e.g., not interfacing properly with interstitial fluid and experiencing a low-moisture environment). Signals from the impedance detection module  126  can further be use d to trigger an error correction action (e.g., notification for the user to reapply the microsensor patch  110 , automatic manipulation of the microsensor patch  110  to re-establish interface with body fluid, etc.). In one variation, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the impedance detection module can comprise electronic circuitry configured to communicate with the multiplexer  22 , the ADC  24 , and the power management module  124 , in receiving an impedance signal from the microsensor  116 . However, the impedance detection module  126  can additionally or alternatively be configured relative to other elements of the electronics subsystem  120  in any other suitable manner. 
     In generating the impedance signal, the impedance detection module  126  can be configured to detect impedance between two electrodes of the array of filaments  117  in response to an applied voltage provided in cooperation with the power management module  126  and the microprocessor  113 . In one variation, wherein the microsensor  116  comprises a first working electrode  11 , a second working electrode  12 , a counter electrode  13 , and a reference electrode, the impedance detection module  126  can be configured to detect impedance from two of the first working electrode  11 , the second working electrode  12 , the counter electrode  13 , and the reference electrode  14 , examples of which are shown in  FIG. 7 . In a specific example, an applied signal can be injected into the system in a working electrode and detected in the reference electrode  14 . However in other configurations of the microsensor  116 , the impedance detection module  126  can be configured to detect impedance from electrodes of the microsensor  116  in any other suitable manner. 
     In relation to the applied voltage used for generation and reception of the impedance signal (i.e., for purposes of perturbation), the electronics subsystem  120  is preferably configured to provide an applied voltage waveform having a characteristic value (e.g., average value) near the operating potential of the signal conditioning module  122  of the electronics subsystem  120 . In a variation wherein the signal conditioning module  122  (e.g., an analog front end  23  of the signal conditioning module  122 ) operates at a shifted potential relative to a potential of an electrode of the microsensor  116  (e.g., a reference potential of a reference electrode), the applied voltage waveform preferably has a characteristic value (e.g., average value) near or equal to that of the shifted potential, in order to improve stability of the microsensor  110  when switching back to a current sensing mode (i.e., the primary detection mode). The offset (i.e., shifted potential) is configured to reduce or minimize any disruption to signal integrity when the microsensor  110  is switched from a current sensing mode to an impedance detection mode, and then back to a current sensing mode. In a specific example, as shown in  FIG. 8 , the applied voltage waveform is shifted about a characteristic value and has a frequency from 50-200 kHz, in relation to a shifted potential of the analog front end  23  relative to the reference electrode  14 . However, the applied voltage can alternatively have any other suitable characteristics (e.g., characteristic voltage values, frequencies, etc.) defined in relation to the operating potential(s) of any other suitable element of the electronic subsystem  120  related to the microsensor  116 . 
     In relation to triggering of a measurement using the impedance detection module  126 , triggering can occur with any suitable frequency (e.g., in relation to the lifespan of usage of the system  100 ), any suitable regularity (e.g., at regular time intervals, at irregular time intervals, etc.), and/or upon any suitable triggering event. In one variation, the impedance detection module  126  can be configured to provide an impedance signal in association with monitoring of an electrode (e.g., monitoring voltage of the counter electrode  13 ) of the microsensor  116 , wherein detection of an out-of-range parameter (e.g., voltage) of the electrode triggers the applied voltage waveform and generation of an impedance signal. As such, the electronics subsystem  120  and the processing subsystem  160  (described further below) can be configured to cooperate in continuously detecting a voltage parameter of the counter electrode  13 , and the electronics subsystem  120  can be configured to apply the applied voltage waveform and detect the impedance signal when the voltage parameter of the counter electrode satisfies a voltage threshold condition. 
     Additionally or alternatively, in another variation, the impedance detection module  126  can be configured to provide an impedance signal upon initial application of the system  100  to the body of the user. Additionally or alternatively, in another variation, the impedance detection module  126  can be configured to provide impedance signals at regular time intervals (e.g., once every hour) over the course of use of the system  100  by the user. Additionally or alternatively, in relation to other sensors (e.g., of a mobile computing device associated with the user and the system  100 , of a wearable computing device associated with the user and the system  100 , of the system  100 , etc.) the impedance detection module  126  can be configured to provide an impedance signal in response to a sensor signal that indicates performance of an action by the user. For instance, monitoring of signals provided by an accelerometer and/or gyroscope can be used to indicate that the user is exercising, and that an impedance measurement should be taken (e.g., during exercise, after exercise, etc.) to ensure proper coupling of the system  100  to the user. In another example, monitoring of body temperature of the user can be used to indicate that the user is showering, and that an impedance measurement should be to ensure proper coupling of the system  100  to the user. The impedance detection module  126  can, however, be configured in any other suitable manner. 
     The impedance detection module  126  can further be used to generate notifications pertaining to impedance signal measurements that indicate improper coupling. For instance, a notification can be generated (and transmitted to a mobile computing device of the user) in response to detection of unsuitable impedance derived from comparison between the impedance signal and an impedance threshold condition. However, use of the impedance signal in performing an error correction action can be performed in any other suitable manner. 
     The transmitting unit  130  functions to receive signals generated by the microsensor patch  110  (e.g., byway of the microprocessor  113 ), and to interface with at least one of a mobile computing device  150 , a data processing and/or storage module (e.g., a module external to an on-board storage module, a cloud-based computing module, etc.) by outputting signals based on at least one analyte parameter. The transmitting unit  130  thus cooperates with other elements of the electronics subsystem  120  to transmit signals based on sensed analyte parameters, which can be used to facilitate analyses of the user&#39;s body chemistry. In variations, the transmitting unit  130  includes an antenna  132 , a radio  134  coupling the antenna to the microprocessor  113 , and can additionally or alternatively include a linking interface  136  (e.g., wireless or wired interface, as described in further detail below). 
     Preferably, the transmitting unit  130  and the microsensor patch  110  are integrated as a cohesive unit; however, the transmitting unit  130  and the microsensor patch  110  can alternatively form a modular unit, wherein one of the transmitting unit  130  and the microsensor patch  110  is disposable, and wherein one of the transmitting unit  130  and the microsensor patch  110  is reusable. In variations of the microsensor patch  110  and the transmitting unit  130 , elements of the microsensor patch  110  aside from the microsensor  116  can alternatively be integrated with the transmitting unit  130 , such that the transmitting unit  130  is configured to be reusable and the microsensor  116  of the microsensor patch  110  is configured to be disposable. Modularity in the system  100  is described in further detail in relation to the housing  190  below. 
     Additionally, the transmitting unit  130  is preferably configured to output signals based on at least one analyte parameter characterizing body chemistry continuously over the lifetime usage of the transmitting unit  130 ; however, the transmitting unit  130  can alternatively be configured to output signals based on at least one analyte parameter at a set of time points (e.g., minutes, hours, days). Still alternatively, the transmitting unit  130  can be configured to output signals in a manner that does not interfere with other operations (e.g., signal collection operations) of the electronics subsystem  120 . In one such example, the transmitting unit  130  can be configured to stop signal transmission whenever the ADC  24  is collecting signal data from the microsensor  116 , in coordination with timing enabled by a clock/watchdog module associated with the microprocessor  113 . In variations, the transmitting unit  130  can be further configured to output signals upon a user prompt, and/or can comprise a variable sampling rate. For example, the sampling rate can be lower when user is asleep, higher during activity (e.g., exercise), higher when there is a sudden change in a value, higher in response to other stimuli (e.g., if glucose spikes, sampling rate increases for all analytes). 
     The antenna  132  of the transmitting unit  130  functions to convert electrical signals from the microsensor patch  110  into radio waves, to facilitate communication with one or more devices external to the microsensor patch  110  and/or transmitting unit  130  assembly (e.g., by a Bluetooth Low Energy connection). The antenna  132  preferably interfaces with a radio  134  coupled to the microprocessor  113 , as shown in  FIG. 4 , but can additionally or alternatively interface with other elements of the transmitting unit  130 . The antenna is preferably an omnidirectional antenna that radiates radio wave power uniformly primarily in one plane, with the power decreasing with elevation angle relative to the plane; however, the antenna can alternatively be an isotropic antenna that has a spherical radiation patent. Other variations of the antenna can include any appropriate antenna that can be integrated with the form factor of the transmitting unit, while providing appropriate communication with external devices. 
     The radio  134  functions to transmit and receive signals from the antenna  132 , and also facilitates communication with elements of the transmitting unit  130  and external devices. The radio  134  and the antenna  132  can additionally or alternatively be supplemented with a linking interface  136 , as described in further detail below, but can additionally or alternatively interface with other elements of the electronics subsystem  120 . 
     The linking interface  136  functions to transmit an output of at least one element of the microsensor patch  110 /transmitting unit  130  assembly to a mobile computing device  150 . Additionally, the linking interface  136  can function to transmit and output of at least one element of the microsensor patch  110  and transmitting unit  130  assembly to another element external to the microsensor patch  110  and transmitting unit  130 . Preferably, the linking interface  136  is a wireless interface; however, the linking interface  136  can alternatively be a wired connection. In a first variation, the linking interface  136  can include a first module that interfaces with a second module included in a mobile computing device  150  or other external element (e.g., wrist-borne mobile computing device, head-mounted mobile computing device), wherein data or signals (e.g., microsensor or transceiver outputs) are transmitted from the transmitting unit  130  to the mobile computing device  150  or external element over non-wired communications. The linking interface  136  of the first variation can alternatively implement other types of wireless communications, such as 3G, 4G, radio, or Wi-Fi communication. In the first variation, data and/or signals are preferably encrypted before being transmitted by the linking interface  136 . For example, cryptographic protocols such as Diffie-Hellman key exchange, Wireless Transport Layer Security (WTLS), or any other suitable type of protocol can be used. The data encryption can also comply with standards such as the Data Encryption Standard (DES), Triple Data Encryption Standard (3-DES), or Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). In variations with data encryption, data can be unencrypted upon transmission to the mobile computing device  150  associated with the user. However, in an alternative variation, data can remain encrypted throughout transmission to a mobile computing device (associated with the user, not associated with the user) and unencrypted at another module of a processing subsystem  160  (e.g., unencrypted in the cloud), wherein information derived from analysis of the data can then be transmitted back to the mobile computing device associated with the user in a secure manner. In this variation, a user can thus pair his/her microsensor patch  110  with a mobile computing device unassociated with the user for transmission of encrypted data, and then later receive personalized body information at his/her own mobile computing device  150  after processing in the cloud. 
     In a second variation, the linking interface  136  is a wired connection, wherein the linking interface  136  includes a wired jack connector (e.g., a ⅛″ headphone jack, a USB connection, a mini-USB connection, a lightning cable connection, etc.) such that the transmitting unit  130  can communicate with the mobile computing device  150  and/or an external element through a complementary jack of the mobile device and/or external element. In one specific example of the linking interface  136  that includes a wired jack, the linking interface is configured only to transmit output signals from the transmitting unit  130 /microsensor patch  110 . In another specific example, the linking interface  136  is configured to transmit data to and from at least one element of transmitting unit  130 /transdermal path  110  assembly and a mobile computing device  150 . In this example, the linking interface  136  can transmit output signals into the mobile computing device  150  through an input of the jack of the mobile computing device  150  and can retrieve data from an output of the jack of the mobile computing device  150 . In this example, the linking interface  136  can communicate with the mobile computing device  150  via inter-integrated circuit communication (I2C), one-wire, master-slave, or any other suitable communication protocol. However, the linking interface can transmit data in any other way and can include any other type of wired connection that supports data transfer between the transmitting unit  130  and/or microsensor patch  110 , and the mobile computing device  150 . 
     As noted above, the electronics subsystem  120  can include any other suitable module(s) and/or be configured in any other suitable manner. For instance, the electronics subsystem  120  can include or be in communication with an actuator configured to automatically perform an action (e.g., vibration, provision of a biasing force) that biases the microsensor into communication with interstitial fluid of the user, in response to detection of unsuitable impedance derived from comparison between an impedance signal and an impedance threshold condition. 
     1.1.3 System—Housing 
     The housing  190  supports the microsensor  116  and the electronics subsystem  120 , and functions to facilitate robust coupling of the microsensor patch  110  to the user in a manner that allows the user to wear the microsensor patch  110  for a sufficient period of time (e.g., one week, one month, etc.). The housing  190  can also function to protect elements of the microsensor patch  110  from physical damage over the lifetime usage of the microsensor patch  110 . Preferably, at least one portion of the housing  190  is flexible to facilitate adhesion to the user and compliance with skin of the user as the user moves in his/her daily life; however, at least a portion of the housing  190  can alternatively be rigid in order to provide more robust protection against physical damage. In an embodiment where a portion of the housing  190  is flexible, other elements of the microsensor patch  110  can also be flexible (e.g., using a thin film battery, using flexible electronics, etc.) to facilitate adhesion to the user and compliance as the user moves about in his/her daily life. In one variation, the housing  190  can comprise a single unit that entirely houses the microsensor  116  and the electronics subsystem  120 . In this variation, the housing  190  can be configured to couple to the user using any suitable coupling mechanism (e.g., adhesive coupling mechanism, strap-based coupling mechanism, etc.). However, in other variations, the housing  190  can alternatively be modular and comprise a set of portions, each portion configured to enable coupling of the microsensor  116  to the user and/or to house elements of the electronics subsystem  120 . Modularity of the housing  190  can thus allow portions of the system  100  to be disposable and/or reusable. 
     In one such modular variation of the housing  190 , as shown in  FIG. 9 , the housing can comprise a first housing portion  191  and a second housing portion  196 , wherein the first housing portion  191  is configured to facilitate coupling of filaments of the microsensor  116  to the user, and the second housing portion  196  is configured to house elements of the electronics subsystem  120  and to couple the electronics subsystem  120  to the microsensor  116  by way of the first housing portion  191 . As such, the first housing portion  191  and the second housing portion  196  of this variation are preferably configured to mate with each other in a complementary manner (e.g., with a male-female coupling mechanism, with a magnetic coupling mechanism, with a latch-based coupling mechanism, with a lock-and-key based coupling mechanism, etc.). In a specific example, as shown in  FIGS. 10A-10B , the first housing portion  191 ′ includes an opening  192 ′, and a second housing portion  196 ′ is insertable into the opening of the first housing portion in a first configuration, wherein coupling between the first housing portion  191 ′ and the second housing portion  196 ′ provides a hermetic seal between the first housing portion  191  and the second housing portion  196 . In more detail, as shown in  FIG. 10C , the first housing portion  191  can include an o-ring  193  (e.g., an o-ring molded onto the material of the first housing portion) at a perimeter of the opening  192 , and a perimeter region of the second housing portion  196  can include a recessed region  197  that interfaces with the o-ring  193  in a manner that provides a hermetic seal. In this specific example, the opening  192  and the second housing portion  196  each have substantially circular footprints; however, the opening  192  and the second housing portion  196  can additionally or alternatively have any other suitable footprints or be configured in any other suitable manner. 
     In the specific example, as shown in  FIGS. 10A-10B , the first housing portion  191 ′ can comprise an adhesive substrate  91  having a microsensor opening  92 , a microsensor interface substrate  93  superior to the adhesive substrate and configured to pass the microsensor  92  through the microsensor opening  92 , a coupling ring  94  configured to retain the position of the microsensor interface substrate  93  relative to the adhesive substrate  91  and to provide an interface for mating with the second housing portion  196 , and a flexible cover  95  ensheathing the coupling ring  94 , coupled to the adhesive substrate  91 , and configured to maintain coupling between the adhesive substrate  191 , the microsensor interface substrate  93 , and the coupling ring  94 . In relation to the configuration described above, the adhesive substrate  91  is configured to facilitate adhesion of the microsensor patch  110  to the user at an inferior surface of the adhesive substrate, and the flexible cover  95  is configured to provide the opening  192 ′ that receives the second housing portion  192 . 
     The second housing portion  196  of the specific example is rigid, and configured to form a shell about the electronics subsystem  120 , while including openings that provide access for a set of contacts  98  that interface the electronics subsystem  120  with the microsensor interface substrate  93  when the first housing portion  191  is coupled to the second housing portion  196 . In relation to the microsensor interface substrate  93  of the first housing portion  191 , and in relation to a circular (or otherwise axially symmetric) configuration of an interface between the second housing portion  196  and the opening  192  of the first housing portion  191 , the microsensor interface substrate  93  of the specific example can include a circular printed circuit board comprising a set of concentric ring contacts  97 , as shown in  FIG. 10A , that interface electronics of the second housing portion  196  with filaments of the microsensor  116 . As such, the set of contacts  98  (e.g., digital contacts) of electronics of the second housing portion  196  can properly interface with the microsensor  116  in any rotational position of the second housing portion  196  within the first housing portion  191 , as shown in  FIG. 10B . In alternative variations of this specific example however, orientation-unspecific coupling between the first housing portion  191  and the second housing portion  196  can be achieved in any other suitable manner. In still alternative variations of this specific example, the first housing portion  191  and the second housing portion  196  can be configured to couple with a set orientation in order to ensure proper communication between the microsensor  116  and the electronics subsystem  120 . 
     In variations of the housing  190  comprising a first housing portion  191  and a second housing portion  196 , the first housing portion  191  and the second housing portion  196  can be coupled together and/or coupled to the user by way of a patch applicator  180 , as described in further detail below. Furthermore, other variations of modularity can comprise any other suitable distribution of the microsensor  116  and elements of the electronics subsystem  120  across portions of the housing in any other suitable manner. For instance, in one such variation, the microsensor  116 , the multiplexer  22 , and the analog front end  93  of the electronics subsystem  120  can be coupled to a separate battery (e.g., a thin film battery) within a disposable portion of the housing  190 , and other elements of the electronics subsystem  120  can be supported by a reusable portion of the housing  190 . The system  100  can, however, comprise any other suitable distribution of elements across the housing  190  in a modular fashion. 
     1.2 System—Processing Subsystem 
     The processing subsystem  160  is in communication with the electronics subsystem  120  and functions to generate analyses pertaining to the user&#39;s body chemistry, and to transmit information derived from the analyses to the user at an electronic device associated with the user. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the processing subsystem  160  can be implemented in one or more of: a computer machine, a remote server, a cloud computing system, a microprocessor, processing hardware of a mobile computing device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, head-mounted mobile computing device, wrist-borne mobile computing device, etc.) and any other suitable processing system. In one variation, the processing subsystem  160  comprises a first module  161  configured to generate an analysis indicative of an analyte parameter of the user and derived from a signal stream from the microsensor  116  and an impedance signal from the electronics subsystem  120 . Additionally, in this variation, the processing subsystem  160  comprises a second module  162  configured to render information derived from the analysis at an electronic device (e.g., mobile computing device  150 ) associated with the user, thereby facilitating monitoring of body chemistry of the user. In this variation, the modules of the processing subsystem  160  can be implemented in a hardware module and/or a software module. In variations, a software module  163  can be implemented, at least in part, as a native software application executing on a mobile computing device  150  associated with the user, wherein the user has a user account associated with the native software application. 
     In more detail, the software module  163  functions to analyze an output provided by the transmitting unit  130  of the electronics subsystem  120 , and to communicate an analysis of the output back to the user, so that the user can monitor his/her body chemistry. Preferably, the software module  163  analyzes at least one analyte parameter in order to determine a metric providing information about a user&#39;s body chemistry. In one variation, the software module can determine that a body analyte parameter (e.g., glucose level) of the user is too low or less than ideal, and facilitate a behavior change in the user by providing a body chemistry metric indicating a hypoglycemic state. In this variation, the software module can additionally determine that the body analyte parameter (e.g., glucose level) of the user is within a proper range based on a determined metric. The software module of this variation can additionally determine that the body analyte parameter (e.g., glucose level) of the user is too high and facilitate a behavior change in the user by providing a body chemistry metric indicating a hyperglycemic state. 
     In another example, the software module can analyze an output provided by the transmitting unit  130  based on a set of parameters for multiple analytes characterizing a user&#39;s body chemistry, at a set of time points, and determine at least one metric based on the set of parameters at the set of time points. The software module can then determine and output at least one of a temporal trend in a metric, a temporal trend in an analyte parameter, absolute values of a metric, changes in value of a metric, absolute values of an analyte parameter, and changes in value of an analyte parameter. The software module  163  in this example can further be configured to communicate a suggestion to the user based on an analysis determined from the set of parameters for multiple analytes. 
     The software module preferably incorporates at least one of user health condition, user characteristics (e.g., age, gender, ethnicity), and user activity in analyzing an output provided by the transmitting unit  130 . In one specific example, if a user sets a desired body glucose level range, which is entered into the software module, the software module can be configured to facilitate provision of alerts notifying the user of short-term risks (e.g., diabetic crash), long-term risks (e.g., worsening diabetic condition), and risk of exiting the desired body glucose level range. In another specific example, the software module can compare analyte parameters and/or a metric characterizing the user&#39;s body chemistry to other users with similar health conditions or characteristics (e.g., age, gender, ethnicity). In yet another example, the software module can be able to correlate at least one analyte parameter or metric to a user activity, such that the user is provided with information relating a value of the analyte parameter and/or metric to an activity that he or she has performed. The software module can additionally or alternatively provide an analysis that includes any other health- and/or user-related information that can be useful in treating, maintaining, and/or improving a health condition of a user. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1, 11A, and 11B , the software module can be implemented, at least in part, as an application executable on a mobile computing device  150 . As described above, the mobile computing device  150  is preferably a smartphone but can also be a tablet, laptop computer, PDA, e-book reader, head-mounted computing device, smart-watch, or any other mobile device. The software module can alternatively be an application executable on a desktop computer or web browser. The software module preferably includes an interface that accepts inputs from the user (e.g., user health condition, user characteristics, user activity), and uses these inputs in analyzing an output provided by the transmitting unit  130 . Preferably, the software module also includes an interface that renders an analysis based on sensed analytes and/or user inputs in some form. In an example, the software module includes an interface that summarizes analyte parameter values in some manner (e.g., raw values, ranges, categories, changes), provides a trend (e.g., graph) in at least one analyte parameter or body chemistry metric, provides alerts or notifications, provides additional health metrics, and provides recommendations to modify or improve body chemistry and health metrics. In another example, the software module can implement two interfaces: a first interface accessible by a user, and a second interface accessible by a health care professional servicing the user. The second interface can provide summarized and detailed information for each user that the health care professional interacts with, and can further include a message client to facilitate interactions between multiple users and the health care professional. The software module can additionally or alternatively access a remote network or database containing health information of the user. The remote network can be a server associated with a hospital or a network of hospitals, a server associated with a health insurance agency or network of health insurance agencies, a server associated with a third party that manages health records, or any other user- or heath-related server or entity. The software module can additionally or alternatively be configured to accept inputs from another entity, such as a healthcare professional, related to the user. 
     The software module  163  can additionally or alternatively execute fully or in part on a remote server. In a first variation, the software module can be a cloud-computing-based application that performs data analysis, calculations, and other actions remotely from the mobile computing device  150 . In one example of the first variation, the mobile computing device  150  can receive an output of the transmitting unit  130  via the linking interface  136  and then transfer the output to the remote server upon which the software module executes. In the first variation, signals are preferably transferred via a wireless connection, such as a Bluetooth connection, 3G or 4G cellular connection, and/or via a Wi-Fi internet connection. In another example of the first variation, a mobile computing device  150  can function to transmit data to and/or receive data from the software module. In a second variation, the software module can include a first software component executable on a mobile computing device  150 , such as an application that manages collection, transmission, retrieval, and/or display of data. In the second variation, the software module can further include a second software component that executes on the remote server to retrieve data, analyze data, and/or manage transmission of an analysis back to the mobile computing device  150 , wherein the first software component manages retrieval of data sent from the second software component and/or renders of a form of the analysis on a display of the mobile computing device  150 . However, the software module can include any number of software components executable on any mobile computing device  150 , computing device, and/or server and can be configured to perform any other function or combination of functions. 
     As shown in  FIG. 12A , the software module  163  can further be integrated with a notification module  165  configured to provide an alert or notification to a user and/or health care professional based on the analysis of the output. The notification module  165  functions to access an analysis provided by the software module and to control transmission of a notification  166  to at least one of a user and a healthcare profession interacting with the user. In one variation, the notification module  165  receives an analysis of the software module being executed on a mobile computing device  150 , and generates a notification  166  based upon the analysis. In this variation, a form of the analysis is preferably transmitted from the software module, executing on the mobile computing device  150 , to the notification module  165 , wherein the mobile computing device  150  accesses the analysis either from the software module executing on the mobile computing device  150  or from the software module executing on a remote server and in communication with the mobile computing device  150 . The notification module  165  preferably controls transmission of the notification  166  to the user, such as by triggering a display of the mobile computing device  150  to display a form of the notification, or by generating and/or transmitting an email, SMS, voicemail, social media platform (e.g., Facebook or Twitter) message, or any other message accessible by the user and which contains the notification  166 . The notification module  165  can also convey the notification  166  by triggering a vibration of the mobile device  160 , and/or by altering the state (i.e., ON or OFF) of one or more light sources (e.g., LEDs) of the mobile computing device  150 . However, the notification module  165  can alternatively manage the transmission of any other information and function in any appropriate manner. 
     The notification  166  preferably contains information relevant to a body chemistry status of the user. The notification  166  can additionally include an explicit directive for the user to perform a certain action (e.g., eat, rest, or exercise) that affects the body chemistry of the user. Therefore, the notification  166  preferably systematically and repeatedly analyzes a body chemistry status of the user based on at least one analyte parameter of the user and provides and alert and/or advice to manage and monitor a user&#39;s body chemistry substantially in real time. In one example, the notification  166  can further include information related to what or how much to eat, where and how long to run, level of exertion, and/or how to rest and for how long in order to appropriately adjust body chemistry. In other examples, the notification  166  can include any appropriate information relevant to monitoring a body chemistry metric of the user. 
     In still other examples, as shown in  FIG. 12B , the notification  166  can indicate one or more of: a current level of a measured analyte (e.g., represented in hue, represented in saturation, represented in intensity, etc. of a graphical rendering); a trending direction for the level of the measured analyte (e.g., represented in a feature gradient within a graphical rendering); a lower bounding level and an upper bounding level between which the level of the measured analyte is traversing; a trending direction of a level of a measured analyte (e.g., represented in an arrow of a graphical rendering); a quantification of a level of a measured analyte (e.g., represented as rendered text); a summary of a level of a measured analyte (e.g., represented as rendered text); a percent of time within a time duration (e.g., one day) that the level of the measured analyte is within a target range (e.g., healthy range); and historical behavior of a level of a measured analyte (e.g., represented as historical “ghosting” of a rendering based upon a previous analyte level). 
     Additionally or alternatively, in still other examples, as shown in  FIG. 12C , the notification  166  can include a graphical rendering that shows analyte data from past to present using a line graph representation, wherein an amount (e.g., concentration) of the analyte is represented along a first axis and time is represented along a second axis. In these examples, the graphical rendering can further include a “predicted region” based upon the analysis of the processing subsystem  160 , wherein the predicted region  66  depicts a prediction of where the analyte level will be at a future time point, and a width of the predicted region  66  indicates confidence in the prediction. 
     In relation to the processing subsystem  160  and analyses generated at the processing subsystem  160 , the processing subsystem  160  can be coupled to or comprise a data storage unit  170 , as shown in  FIG. 13 . The data storage unit  170  functions to retains data, such as an analysis provided by a software module, a notification  166 , and/or any other output of any element of the system  100 . The data storage unit  170  can be implemented with the microsensor patch  110 , transmitting unit  130 , mobile computing device  150 , personal computer, web browser, external server (e.g., cloud), and/or local server, or any combination of the above, in a network configured to transmit, store, and receive data. Preferably, data from the data storage unit  170  is automatically transmitted to any appropriate external device continuously; however, data from the data storage unit  170  can alternatively be transmitted only semi-continuously (e.g., every minute, hourly, daily, or weekly). In one example, data generated by any element can be stored on a portion of the data storage unit  170  when the linking interface  136  is not coupled to an element external to the microsensor patch  110 /transmitting unit  130  assembly. However, in the example, when a link is established between the linking interface  136  and an external element, data can then be automatically transmitted from the storage unit  170 . In other examples, the data storage unit  170  can alternatively be prompted to transmit stored data by a user or other entity. Operation modes related to device pairing and information transfer are further described in relation to the base station of Section 1.4 below. 
     1.3 System—Applicator 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the system  100  can further comprise a patch applicator  180 , which functions to facilitate application of at least one of the microsensor patch  110  and the transmitting unit  130 . The patch applicator  180  preferably accelerates the a portion of the housing with the microsensor  116  toward skin of the user, thereby causing the microsensor  116  to penetrate skin of the user and sensing regions of the microsensor to access interstitial fluid of the user. However, the patch applicator  180  can additionally or alternatively facilitate coupling of the microsensor  116  to the user using one or more of: skin stretching, skin permeabilization, skin abrasion, vibration, and/or any other suitable mechanism, variations of which are shown in  FIGS. 14A-14C . In a first variation, as shown in  FIG. 15A , the patch applicator  180 ′ can be incorporated into a first housing portion  191  of a housing  190  of the system  100  and can comprise an elastic pin  181  (e.g., spring-loaded pin) configured to complement a recess of a second housing portion  196 . In this variation, a normal force applied to a broad surface of the second housing portion  196  initially causes the elastic pin  181  to retract, and rebounding of the elastic pin  181  into the recess of the second housing portion  196  biases and accelerates the microsensor  116  into the skin of the user. 
     In a second variation, as shown in  FIG. 15B , the patch applicator  180 ″ implements elastic portions of the housing  190 , which can be used to retract a housing portion with the microsensor  116  and to release the housing portion, thereby accelerating the microsensor  116  into skin of the user. 
     In a third variation, the patch applicator cooperates with a first housing portion  191  and a second housing portion  196 , wherein the patch applicator comprises a first applicator portion configured to surround the housing  190  and interface with the second housing portion  196 , and a second applicator portion configured to accelerate the second housing portion toward skin of the user. In a first specific example of the third variation, as shown in  FIG. 16A , the patch applicator  180   a  comprises a ram-and-catch mechanism, wherein twisting of a rotatable component  83  of the patch applicator  180   a  transitions a plunger  84  of the patch applicator  180   a  from a resting configuration  84   a  to a loaded configuration  84   b , as shown in  FIGS. 16B and 16C , and pushing of the rotatable component  83  of the patch applicator  180   a  releases the plunger  84  back to the resting configuration  84   a  (as shown in  FIG. 16D ), thereby accelerating the microsensor  116  toward skin of the user during application of the microsensor patch  110  to the user. In more detail, in the first specific example, twisting of the rotatable component  83  transitions the plunger  84  along ramped surfaces  85  of the patch applicator  180   a  to the loaded configuration  84   a , where the plunger  84  rests on triggers  86  of the patch applicator  180   a . Then, as shown in  FIG. 16D , pressing of the rotatable component  83  provides an outward biasing force on the triggers  86  (e.g., due to wedge-shaped morphology of the triggers that interacts with a complementary portion of the rotatable component  83 ), thereby releasing the plunger  84  to the resting configuration  84   a . In this specific example, a set of ribs  87  coupled to a wall of the patch applicator  180  surrounding the plunger  84  maintain plunger alignment. 
     In a second specific example of the third variation, as shown in  FIG. 17 , the patch applicator  180   b  comprises an elastic component  89  housed within and coupled to a translating component  88  of the patch applicator  180   b , wherein the translating component  88  comprises a plunger  84 ′ and is configured to translate along a first axis. The patch applicator  180   b  further comprises a trigger  188  coupled to a biasing spring  189  and configured to translate along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, between a holding position  188   a  and a releasing position  188   b . In the second specific example, the translating component  88  is biased in holding position  188   a , and pushing of the translating component  88  places a lateral biasing force on the trigger  188  against the biasing spring  189  (e.g., due to wedge-shaped morphology of the trigger  188  that interacts with a complementary portion of the translating component  88 ), thereby releasing the plunger  84 ′ to accelerate the microsensor  116  toward skin of the user. In pushing the translating component  88 , compression of the elastic component  89  creates a reverse biasing force that automatically releases the translating component  88  toward the resting configuration  88   a.    
     The patch applicator  180  can alternatively be configured to receive the microsensor patch  110 , to stretch the skin of the user isotropically in two dimensions to facilitate application, and to push the microsensor patch  110 /transmitting unit  130  assembly onto the user&#39;s stretch skin. Still alternatively, the patch applicator  180  can include any other suitable applicator, variations and examples of which are described in U.S. App. No. 62/025,174 entitled “System for Monitoring Body Chemistry” and filed on 16 Jul. 2014. Still other variations of the system  100  can entirely omit a patch applicator  180 . 
     1.4 System—Base Station 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the system can include a base station  5  that functions to receive the microsensor patch  110  (e.g., within a second housing portion  196 ). In receiving the microsensor patch  110 , the base station  5  can include alignment elements  6  (e.g., protrusions, recesses, magnetic alignment elements, etc.) that facilitate alignment of the microsensor patch  110  within the base station, as shown in  FIG. 18A . The base station  5  can additionally or alternatively facilitate charging of a rechargeable battery of the microsensor patch  110  by including elements that generate an electromagnetic field that interacts with a charging coil coupled to the battery, thereby charging the battery  138 . The base station  5  can additionally or alternatively be used to transition the microsensor patch between different operational states, in relation to data transfer between the microsensor patch  110 , a mobile computing device  150  associated with the user, and modules of a processing subsystem  160  (e.g., cloud module) as shown in  FIG. 19 . In a first operation mode Sa, the transmitting unit  130  of the microsensor patch  110  and the mobile computing device  150  can pair/bond only when the second housing portion  196  of the microsensor patch  110  is in communication with the base station  5  (e.g., aligned within the base station  5 ). Thus, in the first operation mode Sa, the microsensor patch  110  can transmit and receive data (e.g., compact raw data compounded into a plurality of bits over Bluetooth communication). In a second operation mode  5   b  wherein the microsensor patch  110  is not in communication with the base station  5 , the microsensor patch  110  can be configured to only transmit data (but not receive data), thereby reducing energy usage, preventing man-in-the-middle attack, and preventing tampering. As such, the second operation mode  5   b  prevents reading of data from the microsensor patch  110  by a fraudulent entity, without gaining physical access to the microsensor patch  110 . 
     The operation modes of the system  100  enabled by the microsensor patch, the base station  5 , the mobile computing device  150 , and the processing subsystem  160  are further detailed in  FIG. 19 . In relation to pairing with the microsensor patch  110  in the first operation mode  5   a , the mobile computing device  150  functions to provide one or more of: data relay, data visualization, data storage, notification, and action functions (e.g., as described in relation to the software module  163  described above). In communicating information between the mobile computing device  150  and a cloud module of the processing subsystem  160 , the mobile computing device  150  can be configured to transmit raw data in Javascript Object Notation (JSON) format (or any other suitable format) to be processed in the cloud, and analyte data, notifications, and alerts (e.g., as derived from an analysis) can be transmitted back to the mobile computing device  150  in JSON format (or any other suitable format). The cloud module of the processing subsystem  160  can thus serve to enable authentication of the user (e.g., in association with a user account of a native application) and/or data, data storage, data processing, notification, and prediction functions, as described in relation to the processing subsystem  160  described above. Thus, the system  100  is configured for fault tolerance, wherein the microsensor patch  110  stores data when faulty operation of the mobile computing device  150  occurs, and failure of the processing subsystem  100  results in data storage at the mobile computing device. The system  100  can, however, be configured in any other suitable manner. 
     As shown in  FIG. 18B , the base station  5  and the patch applicator  180  can be configured to couple together, thus facilitating portability of the base station  5  and patch applicator  180 . However, the base station  5 , patch applicator  180 , and microsensor no can alternatively be configured to couple or not couple together in any other suitable manner. 
     1.5 System—Calibration 
     The microsensor patch no is preferably calibrated to prevent signal degradation and to mitigate the effects of transient effects experienced during analyte sensing. The primary sensing mechanism is potentiometric for small analytes (e.g., potassium, sodium, calcium), and amperometric for large molecules (e.g., glucose, lactic, creatinine). In a first variation, the microsensor patch no passively detects analytes by detecting an impedance and/or capacitance change, as well as a voltage change when an analyte or analyte concentration contacts the microsensor  116 . Calibration can occur by normalizing sensing measurements relative to a grounded portion of the microsensor  116 , such as a reference electrode. 
     In a second variation, the microsensor patch  110  can implement active impedance calibration, wherein a drive voltage is implemented by the electronics subsystem  111  of the microsensor patch  110 , and voltage and impedance and/or capacitance changes are detected. The drive voltage is preferably applied in a sinusoidal pattern, but can alternatively be applied in any appropriate pattern. In the second variation, sensed analytes or analyte concentrations are characterized by changes in impedance, and noise is characteristically distinguished from analyte detection by monitoring changes in voltage unaccompanied by changes in impedance or capacitance. The second variation thus employs a conductometric measurement to calibrate the microsensor patch no. Impedance measurements can also be used to address shift in a reference electrode (e.g., in the first variation described above). 
     In a third variation, the microsensor patch no can employ injection of a volume of a calibration solution with a known concentration of at least one analyte, in order to calibrate the microsensor patch no. In an example of the third variation, the calibration solution can have a known concentration of at least one analyte, such that changes (e.g., changes in electrical parameters) detected by the microsensor patch no in response to the calibration solution can be used to normalize measurements resulting from sensed analytes or analyte concentrations occurring after injection of the volume of calibration solution. In the third variation, the calibration solution can be injected automatically and periodically over the lifetime usage of the transdermal patch; however, the calibration solution can alternatively be injected when prompted by a user or other entity. 
     In a fourth variation, the microsensor patch  110  can include a membrane comprising a known concentration and/or release profile of at least one analyte, in order to calibrate the microsensor patch  110 . In an example of the fourth variation, the membrane can have a known concentration and release profile of at least one analyte, such that changes (e.g., changes in electrical parameters) detected by the microsensor patch  110  in response to the membrane can be used to normalize measurements resulting from sensed analytes or analyte concentrations. In the fourth variation, the membrane can be a degradable membrane, such that degradation of the membrane over time releases analytes from the membrane. Alternatively, the membrane can be manufactured with specific porosity, contributing to a certain analyte release profile. 
     In a fifth variation, the microsensor patch  110  can include a coating or a cap comprising a soluble species (e.g., analyte/ion) with a well-known solubility, in order to calibrate the microsensor patch  110 . In an example of the fifth variation, the soluble species maintains a known concentration of the species within the vicinity of a filament that can be used to normalize and/or calibrate a signal. Examples of soluble species include low solubility, biocompatible calcium salts, such as calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, and dicalcium phosphate for calcium sensing. Other suitable soluble species can be used to calibrate other analytes. 
     In alternative variations, the microsensor patch  110  can use any other suitable calibration method. For instance, the transdermal patch can be pre-staged, prepped, loaded, or activated to have a set calibration state enabling calibration of the system after application to the user within a desired period of time (e.g., an 85 mg/dl calibration state equilibrated after insertion within a period of 2 hours). 
     As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the described embodiments, variations, and examples of the system  100  without departing from the scope of the system  100 . 
     2. Method 
     As shown in  FIG. 20 , a method  200  for monitoring body chemistry of a user comprises: receiving a second housing portion into an opening of a first housing portion S 210 , the first housing portion supporting a microsensor including a first working electrode, a second working electrode, a reference electrode, and a counter electrode, and the second housing portion supporting an electronics subsystem configured to receive a signal stream from the microsensor; after interfacing with the second housing portion, accelerating the second housing portion toward skin of the user S 220 , thereby delivering sensing regions of the microsensor into interstitial fluid of the user; generating an impedance signal, from two of the first working electrode, the second working electrode, the reference electrode, and the counter electrode, in response to applying a voltage, near a shifted potential different than a reference potential of the reference electrode S 230 , wherein the shifted potential is associated with a signal conditioning module of the electronics subsystem; at a processing system in communication with the electronics subsystem, receiving the signal stream and the impedance signal S 240 ; at the processing system, generating an analysis indicative of an analyte parameter of the user and derived from the signal stream and the impedance signal S 250 ; and transmitting information derived from the analysis to an electronic device associated with the user, thereby facilitating monitoring of body chemistry of the user S 260 . 
     The method  200  functions to provide continuous monitoring of a user&#39;s body chemistry through reception and processing of signals associated with of one or more analytes present in the body of the user, and to provide an analysis of the user&#39;s body chemistry to the user and/or an entity (e.g., health care professional, caretaker, relative, friend, acquaintance, etc.) associated with the user. Alternatively, the method  200  can function to detect a user&#39;s body chemistry upon the user&#39;s request or sporadically, and/or can provide an analysis of the user&#39;s body chemistry only to the user. The method is preferably implemented, at least in part, using an embodiment, variation, or example of elements of the system  100  described in Section 1 above; however, the method  200  can additionally or alternatively be implemented using any other suitable system. 
     Variations of the system  100  and method  200  include any combination or permutation of the described components and processes. Furthermore, various processes of the preferred method can be embodied and/or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions and/or in the cloud. The instructions are preferably executed by computer-executable components preferably integrated with a system and one or more portions of a control module and/or a processor. The computer-readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer readable media such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory, EEPROMs, optical devices (CD or DVD), hard drives, floppy drives, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component is preferably a general or application specific processor, but any suitable dedicated hardware device or hardware/firmware combination device can additionally or alternatively execute the instructions. 
     The FIGURES illustrate the architecture, functionality and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to preferred embodiments, example configurations, and variations thereof. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, step, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block can occur out of the order noted in the FIGURES. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions. 
     As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of this invention defined in the following claims.