Patent Description:
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to sensor integrated substrates, which can be incorporated into wound dressings and systems, and in particular to design rules for such substrates.

Nearly all areas of medicine may benefit from improved information regarding the state of the tissue, organ, or system to be treated, particularly if such information is gathered in real-time during treatment. Many types of treatments are still routinely performed without the use of sensor data collection; instead, such treatments rely upon visual inspection by a caregiver or other limited means rather than quantitative sensor data. For example, in the case of wound treatment via dressings and/or negative pressure wound therapy, data collection is generally limited to visual inspection by a caregiver and often the underlying wounded tissue may be obscured by bandages or other visual impediments. Even intact, unwounded skin may have underlying damage that is not visible to the naked eye, such as a compromised vascular or deeper tissue damage that may lead to an ulcer. Similar to wound treatment, during orthopedic treatments requiring the immobilization of a limb with a cast or other encasement, only limited information is gathered on the underlying tissue. In instances of internal tissue repair, such as a bone plate, continued direct sensor-driven data collection is not performed. Further, braces and/or sleeves used to support musculoskeletal function do not monitor the functions of the underlying muscles or the movement of the limbs. Outside of direct treatments, common hospital room items such as beds and blankets could be improved by adding capability to monitor patient parameters. <CIT> relates to a wound monitoring and therapy system.

Such wound monitoring and/or treatment systems present unique problems due to being in contact with tissue. In addition, a wound should be allowed to heal without impediment. At the same time, care must be taken to ensure that such systems are reliable and safe for use on human or animal tissue.

Therefore, there is a need for improved wound monitoring and/or treatment systems.

A sensor sheet of a wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus (such as a wound dressing) includes a plurality of electronic components. The plurality of electronic components includes at least a first electronic component. The first electronic component includes a first electrical connector configured to electrically connect the first electronic component. The wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus includes a substantially flexible substrate. The substantially flexible substrate includes a first, wound-facing side supporting the plurality of electronic components and a second side opposite the first side. The wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus includes a track of first conductive ink with a first impedance. The first conductive ink resides on the substantially flexible substrate. The track of the first conductive ink is electrically coupled to the first electrical connector of the first electronic component. The wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus includes a track of second conductive ink with a second impedance different from the first impedance. The second conductive ink resides on the substantially flexible substrate. The track of the second conductive ink is electrically coupled to the track of first conductive ink.

The sensor sheet of the preceding paragraph may also include any combination of the following features described in this paragraph, among other features described herein. A soldering paste can be electrically coupled between the first electrical connector and the first electronic component. The soldering paste electrically can couples the first electrical connector and the first electronic component. The first conductive ink can bond better (e.g., form a superior electrical connection) with the soldering paste than the second conductive ink. The track of second conductive ink can be electrically coupled to the first electronic component via the track of first conductive ink. The track of the first conductive ink can be a first track of the first conductive ink. The sensor sheet can include a second track of the first conductive ink coupled to the track of the second conductive ink. The second track of the first conductive ink can be electrically coupled to the first track of the first conductive ink via the track of the second conductive ink. The track of the first conductive ink can be a first track of the first conductive ink. The plurality of electronic components can include a second electronic component that includes a second electrical connector. The sensor sheet can include a second track of the first conductive ink coupled to the second electrical connector of the second electronic component.

The sensor sheet of any of the preceding two paragraphs may also include any combination of the following features described in this paragraph, among other features described herein. The track of the second conductive ink can be coupled to the second track of the first conductive ink. The first electronic component can be electrically coupled to the second electronic component via the first track of the first conductive ink, the track of the second conductive ink, and the second track of the first conductive ink. The track of the second conductive ink can be a first track of the second conductive ink. The sensor sheet can include a second track of the second conductive ink coupled to the second track of the first conductive ink. The first electronic component can include at least one of a sensor, an amplifier, a capacitor, a resistor, an inductor, a controller, a processor, a diode, or a connector. At least one of the first conductive ink or the second conductive ink can include silver ink.

The sensor sheet of any of the preceding three paragraphs may also include any combination of the following features described in this paragraph, among other features described herein. An impedance variance due to stretching of the second conductive ink can be smaller than an impedance variance due to stretching of the first conductive ink. The first conductive ink can have a first width, and the second conductive ink can have a second width that is larger than the first width. A thermal conductivity of the first conductive ink can be higher than a thermal conductivity of the second conductive ink. At least one of the first conductive ink or the second conductive ink can include an electrical textile. The electrical textile can be cotton.

The sensor sheet of any of the preceding four paragraphs may also include any combination of the following features described in this paragraph, among other features described herein. The first conductive ink can include a fiber. The fiber can reduce an impedance variance due to stretching of the first conductive ink. The first impedance can be greater than the second impedance. The first conductive ink can be more conductive than the second conductive ink. At least a portion of the track of the second conductive ink can overlap with at least a portion of the track of first conductive ink. The track of the second conductive ink can be electrically coupled to the track of first conductive ink using conductive glue. The track of the second conductive ink can be electrically coupled to the track of first conductive ink using conductive tape. The first conductive ink can include a first amount of silver. The second conductive ink can include a second amount of silver that is different from the first amount.

Embodiments not according to the invention disclosed herein relate to apparatuses and methods of at least one of monitoring or treating biological tissue with sensor-enabled substrates. The systems disclosed herein are not limited to monitoring of a particular type of tissue or injury, instead the sensor-enabled technologies disclosed herein are broadly applicable to any type of therapy that may benefit from sensor-enabled substrates. Some implementations utilize sensors and data collection relied upon by health care providers to make both diagnostic and patient management decisions.

Some systems disclosed herein relate to the use of sensors mounted on or embedded within substrates configured to be used in the treatment of both intact and damaged human or animal tissue. Such sensors may collect information about the surrounding tissue and transmit such information to a computing device or a caregiver to be utilized in further treatment. In certain cases, such sensors may be attached to the skin anywhere on the body, including areas for monitoring arthritis, temperature, or other areas that may be prone to problems and require monitoring. Sensors disclosed herein may also incorporate markers, such as radiopaque markers, to indicate the presence of the device, for example prior to performing an MRI or other technique.

The sensor systems disclosed herein may be used in combination with clothing. Non-limiting examples of clothing for use with the sensor systems and methods disclosed herein include shirts, pants, trousers, dresses, undergarments, outer-garments, gloves, shoes, hats, and other suitable garments. In certain cases, the sensor systems disclosed herein may be welded into or laminated into/onto the particular garments. The sensor systems may be printed directly onto the garment and/or embedded into the fabric. Breathable and printable materials such as microporous membranes may also be suitable.

Sensor systems disclosed herein may be incorporated into cushioning or bed padding, such as within a hospital bed, to monitor patient characteristics, such as any characteristic disclosed herein. In certain cases, a disposable film containing such sensors could be placed over the hospital bedding and removed/replaced as needed.

In some implementations, the sensor systems disclosed herein may incorporate energy harvesting, such that the sensor systems and methods are self-sustaining. For example, energy may be harvested from thermal energy sources, kinetic energy sources, chemical gradients, or any suitable energy source.

The sensor systems disclosed herein may be utilized in rehabilitation devices and treatments, including sports medicine. For example, the sensor systems disclosed herein may be used in braces, sleeves, wraps, supports, and other suitable items. Similarly, the sensor systems disclosed herein may be incorporated into sporting equipment, such as helmets, sleeves, and/or pads. For example, such sensor systems may be incorporated into a protective helmet to monitor characteristics such as acceleration, which may be useful in concussion diagnosis.

The sensor systems disclosed herein may be used in coordination with surgical devices, for example, the NAVIO surgical system by Smith & Nephew Inc. In some implementations, the sensor systems and methods disclosed herein may be in communication with such surgical devices to guide placement of the surgical devices. In some implementations, the sensor systems and methods disclosed herein may monitor blood flow to or away from the potential surgical site or ensure that there is no blood flow to a surgical site. Further surgical data may be collected to aid in the prevention of scarring and monitor areas away from the impacted area.

To further aid in surgical techniques, the sensors disclosed herein may be incorporated into a surgical drape to provide information regarding tissue under the drape that may not be immediately visible to the naked eye. For example, a sensor embedded flexible drape may have sensors positioned advantageously to provide improved area-focused data collection. In certain implementations, the sensor systems and methods disclosed herein may be incorporated into the border or interior of a drape to create fencing to limit/ control the surgical theater.

Sensor systems disclosed herein may also be utilized for pre-surgical assessment. For example, such sensor systems may be used to collect information about a potential surgical site, such as by monitoring skin and the underlying tissues for a possible incision site. For example, perfusion levels or other suitable characteristics may be monitored at the surface of the skin and deeper in the tissue to assess whether an individual patient may be at risk for surgical complications. Sensor systems such as those disclosed herein may be used to evaluate the presence of microbial infection and provide an indication for the use of antimicrobials. Further, sensor systems disclosed herein may collect further information in deeper tissue, such as identifying pressure ulcer damage and/or the fatty tissue levels.

The sensor systems disclosed herein may be utilized in cardiovascular monitoring. For example, such sensor systems and methods may be incorporated into a flexible cardiovascular monitor that may be placed against the skin to monitor characteristics of the cardiovascular system and communicate such information to another device and/or a caregiver. For example, such a device may monitor pulse rate, oxygenation of the blood, and/or electrical activity of the heart. Similarly, the sensor systems disclosed herein may be utilized for neurophysiological applications, such as monitoring electrical activity of neurons.

The sensor systems disclosed herein may be incorporated into implantable devices, such as implantable orthopedic implants, including flexible implants. Such sensor systems may be configured to collect information regarding the implant site and transmit this information to an external source. In some cases, an internal source may also provide power for such an implant.

The sensor systems disclosed herein may also be utilized for monitoring biochemical activity on the surface of the skin or below the surface of the skin, such as lactose buildup in muscle or sweat production on the surface of the skin. In some cases, other characteristics may be monitored, such as glucose concentration, urine concentration, tissue pressure, skin temperature, skin surface conductivity, skin surface resistivity, skin hydration, skin maceration, and/or skin ripping.

Sensor systems disclosed herein may be incorporated into Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) applications. For example, such sensor systems and methods may be utilized to monitor recovery from ENT-related surgery, such as wound monitoring within the sinus passage.

Sensor systems disclosed herein may encompass sensor printing technology with encapsulation, such as encapsulation with a polymer film. Such a film may be constructed using any polymer described herein, such as polyurethane. Encapsulation may provide waterproofing of the electronics and protection from local tissue, local fluids, and other sources of potential damage.

In certain cases, the sensors disclosed herein may be incorporated into an organ protection layer. Such a sensor-embedded organ protection layer may both protect the organ of interest and confirm that the organ protection layer is in position and providing protection. Further, a sensor-embedded organ protection layer may be utilized to monitor the underlying organ, such as by monitoring blood flow, oxygenation, and other suitable markers of organ health. In some cases, a sensor-enabled organ protection layer may be used to monitor a transplanted organ, such as by monitoring the fat and muscle content of the organ. Further, sensor-enabled organ protection layers may be used to monitor an organ during and after transplant, such as during rehabilitation of the organ.

The sensor systems disclosed herein may be incorporated into treatments for wounds (disclosed in greater detail below) or in a variety of other applications. Non-limiting examples of additional applications for the sensor systems disclosed herein include: monitoring and treatment of intact skin, cardiovascular applications such as monitoring blood flow, orthopedic applications such as monitoring limb movement and bone repair, neurophysiological applications such as monitoring electrical impulses, and any other tissue, organ, system, or condition that may benefit from improved sensor-enabled monitoring.

Some systems disclosed herein relate to wound therapy for a human or animal body. Therefore, any reference to a wound herein can refer to a wound on a human or animal body, and any reference to a body herein can refer to a human or animal body. The disclosed systems may relate to preventing or minimizing damage to physiological tissue or living tissue, or to the treatment of damaged tissue (for example, a wound as described herein) wound with or without reduced pressure, including for example a source of negative pressure and wound dressing components and apparatuses. The apparatuses and components comprising the wound overlay and packing materials or internal layers, if any, are sometimes collectively referred to herein as dressings. In some cases, the wound dressing can be provided to be utilized without reduced pressure.

As used herein the expression "wound" may include an injury to living tissue may be caused by a cut, blow, or other impact, typically one in which the skin is cut or broken. A wound may be a chronic or acute injury. Acute wounds occur as a result of surgery or trauma. They move through the stages of healing within a predicted timeframe. Chronic wounds typically begin as acute wounds. The acute wound can become a chronic wound when it does not follow the healing stages resulting in a lengthened recovery. It is believed that the transition from acute to chronic wound can be due to a patient being immuno-compromised.

Chronic wounds may include for example: venous ulcers (such as those that occur in the legs), which account for the majority of chronic wounds and mostly affect the elderly, diabetic ulcers (for example, foot or ankle ulcers), peripheral arterial disease, pressure ulcers, or epidermolysis bullosa (EB).

Examples of other wounds include, but are not limited to, abdominal wounds or other large or incisional wounds, either as a result of surgery, trauma, stemiotomies, fasciotomies, or other conditions, dehisced wounds, acute wounds, chronic wounds, subacute and dehisced wounds, traumatic wounds, flaps and skin grafts, lacerations, abrasions, contusions, burns, diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, stoma, surgical wounds, trauma and venous ulcers or the like.

Wounds may also include a deep tissue injury. Deep tissue injury is a term proposed by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) to describe a unique form of pressure ulcers. These ulcers have been described by clinicians for many years with terms such as purple pressure ulcers, ulcers that are likely to deteriorate and bruises on bony prominences.

Wound may also include tissue at risk of becoming a wound as discussed herein. For example, tissue at risk may include tissue over a bony protuberance (at risk of deep tissue injury/insult) or pre-surgical tissue (for example, knee tissue) that may has the potential to be cut (for example, for joint replacement/surgical alteration/reconstruction).

Alternatively or additionally, a wound may be treated using topical negative pressure (TNP) and/or traditional advanced wound care, which is not aided by the using of applied negative pressure (may also be referred to as non-negative pressure therapy).

Advanced wound care may include use of an absorbent dressing, an occlusive dressing, use of an antimicrobial and/or debriding agents in a wound dressing or adjunct, a pad (for example, a cushioning or compressive therapy, such as stockings or bandages), or the like.

In some cases, a wound dressing comprises one or more absorbent layer(s). The absorbent layer may be a foam or a superabsorbent.

In some cases, the disclosed technology may be used in conjunction with a non-negative pressure dressing. A non-negative pressure wound dressing suitable for providing protection at a wound site may comprise an absorbent layer for absorbing wound exudate and an obscuring element for at least partially obscuring a view of wound exudate absorbed by the absorbent layer in use. The obscuring element may be partially translucent. The obscuring element may be a masking layer.

In some cases, the non-negative pressure wound dressing as disclosed herein comprises the wound contact layer and the absorbent layer overlies the wound contact layer. The wound contact layer can carry an adhesive portion for forming a substantially fluid tight seal over the wound.

In some cases, the wound dressing as disclosed herein further comprises layer of a superabsorbent fiber, or a viscose fiber or a polyester fiber.

In some cases, the wound dressing as disclosed herein further comprises a backing layer. The backing layer may be a transparent or opaque film. Typically the backing layer comprises a polyurethane film (typically a transparent polyurethane film).

In some cases, the foam may be an open cell foam, or closed cell foam, typically an open cell foam. The foam can be hydrophilic.

The wound dressing may comprise a transmission layer and the layer can be foam. The transmission layer may be a polyurethane foam laminated to a polyurethane film.

The non-negative pressure wound dressing may be a compression bandage. Compression bandages are known for use in the treatment of oedema and other venous and lymphatic disorders, e.g., of the lower limbs. The compression bandage may comprise a bandage system comprising an inner skin facing layer and an elastic outer layer, the inner layer comprising a first ply of foam and a second ply of an absorbent nonwoven web, the inner layer and outer layer being sufficiently elongated so as to be capable of being wound about a patient's limb.

In some cases, treatment of wounds can be performed using negative pressure wound therapy. It will be understood that systems of the present disclosure can be generally applicable for use in TNP systems. Briefly, negative pressure wound therapy assists in the closure and healing of many forms of "hard to heal" wounds by reducing tissue oedema; encouraging blood flow and granular tissue formation; removing excess exudate and may reduce bacterial load (and thus infection risk). In addition, the therapy allows for less disturbance of a wound leading to more rapid healing. TNP therapy systems may also assist on the healing of surgically closed wounds by removing fluid and by helping to stabilize the tissue in the apposed position of closure. A further beneficial use of TNP therapy can be found in grafts and flaps where removal of excess fluid is important and close proximity of the graft to tissue is required in order to ensure tissue viability.

Negative pressure therapy can be used for the treatment of open or chronic wounds that are too large to spontaneously close or otherwise fail to heal by means of applying negative pressure to the site of the wound. Topical negative pressure (TNP) therapy or negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) involves placing a cover that is impermeable or semi-permeable to fluids over the wound, using various means to seal the cover to the tissue of the patient surrounding the wound, and connecting a source of negative pressure (such as a vacuum pump) to the cover in a manner so that negative pressure is created and maintained under the cover. It is believed that such negative pressures promote wound healing by facilitating the formation of granulation tissue at the wound site and assisting the body's normal inflammatory process while simultaneously removing excess fluid, which may contain adverse cytokines or bacteria.

Some of the dressings used in NPWT can include many different types of materials and layers, for example, gauze, pads, foam pads or multi-layer wound dressings. One example of a multi-layer wound dressing is the PICO dressing, available from Smith & Nephew, includes a wound contact layer and a superabsorbent layer beneath a backing layer to provide a canister-less system for treating a wound with NPWT. The wound dressing may be sealed to a suction port providing connection to a length of tubing, which may be used to pump fluid out of the dressing or to transmit negative pressure from a pump to the wound dressing. Additionally, RENASYS-F, RENASYS-G, RENASYS-AB, and RENASYS-F/AB, available from Smith & Nephew, are additional examples of NPWT wound dressings and systems. Another example of a multi-layer wound dressing is the ALLEVYN Life dressing, available from Smith & Nephew, which includes a moist wound environment dressing that is used to treat the wound without the use of negative pressure.

As is used herein, reduced or negative pressure levels, such as -X mmHg, represent pressure levels relative to normal ambient atmospheric pressure, which can correspond to <NUM> mmHg (or <NUM> atm, <NUM> inHg, <NUM> kPa, <NUM> psi, etc.). Accordingly, a negative pressure value of -X mmHg reflects absolute pressure that is X mmHg below <NUM> mmHg or, in other words, an absolute pressure of (<NUM>-X) mmHg. In addition, negative pressure that is "less" or "smaller" than X mmHg corresponds to pressure that is closer to atmospheric pressure (such as,-<NUM> mmHg is less than -<NUM> mmHg). Negative pressure that is "more" or "greater" than -X mmHg corresponds to pressure that is further from atmospheric pressure (such as, -<NUM> mmHg is more than -<NUM> mmHg). In some cases, local ambient atmospheric pressure is used as a reference point, and such local atmospheric pressure may not necessarily be, for example, <NUM> mmHg.

In some wound closure devices described herein, increased wound contraction can lead to increased tissue expansion in the surrounding wound tissue. This effect may be increased by varying the force applied to the tissue, for example by varying the negative pressure applied to the wound over time, possibly in conjunction with increased tensile forces applied to the wound via some of the wound closure devices. In some cases, negative pressure may be varied over time for example using a sinusoidal wave, square wave, or in synchronization with one or more physiological indices (such as, heartbeat).

Any of the systems disclosed herein can be used in combination with any of the features disclosed in one or more of <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>, which describe absorbent materials; <CIT>, which describes non-negative pressure wound dressings; <CIT>), <CIT>), and <CIT>), which describe multi-layered wound dressings; <CIT> and <CIT>, which describe wound dressings; <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>, which describe compression bandages; <CIT> and <CIT>, which describe wound closure devices; <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>, which describe negative pressure wound therapy dressings, wound dressing components, wound treatment apparatuses, and methods.

<FIG> illustrates a wound monitoring or therapy system <NUM>. The system includes a sensor enabled wound dressing <NUM> connected to a control module <NUM>. As is described herein, the dressing <NUM> can be placed on or in a wound of a patient and can utilize various sensors embedded or otherwise placed in the dressing <NUM> to collect measurement data from one or more of the wound or areas surrounding the wound, such as the periwound (which can include intact skin). The control module <NUM> can receive, store, and process data collected by the dressing <NUM>. To facilitate communication, the dressing <NUM> can include one or more communication modules, such as one or more antennas as described herein. In some cases, the control module <NUM> can transmit one or more of commands and data to the dressing <NUM>.

Wound dressing <NUM> can be disposable and control module <NUM> can be reusable. In some cases, wound dressing <NUM> can be reusable. In some cases, control module <NUM> can be a controller. In some cases, wound dressing <NUM> can be re-sterilized or otherwise sanitized or disinfected. In some cases, control module <NUM> can be disposable. In some cases, wound dressing <NUM> and control module <NUM> can be permanently connected and the combined wound dressing and control module be disposable, or reusable or re-sterilized or otherwise sanitized or disinfected. The control module <NUM> can be positioned on the wound dressing <NUM>. The control module <NUM> can be spatially separated from the wound dressing <NUM>, such as by a cable or another wired or wireless electrical connection. The control module <NUM> can include a power source (such as a battery), one or more processors, one or more data storage elements, and a communication device. In some cases, the control module <NUM> can include one or more sensors, such as a temperature sensor or light (or optical) sensors to gather information on patient or environmental conditions located away from the wound dressing <NUM>. In some cases, the one or more sensors of the control module <NUM> can include an accelerometer, motion sensor or gyroscope.

The wound dressing <NUM> can include one or more indicators to communicate information to a user. The indicators can be visual, audible, haptic, or tactile. Communicated information can include measurement data, wound status, or the like.

The control module <NUM> can communicate data to a communication device <NUM> as requested, periodically, or the like. Communication can be performed over a wired or wireless interface, such as via near field communication (NFC), RFID, or the like when the communication device is placed in communication range. For example, communication range can be close proximity, such as within approximately <NUM> or less or more, to the control module <NUM>. Communication device <NUM> can be placed in communication range by a clinician, such as during initialization and at the end of treatment. The control module <NUM> can respond with data to a command from the communication device <NUM> requesting data. Communication can be performed via transfer of hardware or data storage, such as one or more memory storage devices (for example, SD card). In some cases, communication can be performed non-electronically, such as visually, audibly, or tactilely, and one or more of the control module <NUM> or communication device <NUM> can provide an interface for such non-electronic communication of data.

The communication device <NUM> can be connected via a wired or wireless interface to a computing device <NUM>, such as a personal computer, tablet, smartphone, or the like. For example, wired USB protocol can be used for communication of data between devices <NUM> and <NUM>. As another example, communication of data can be performed via transfer of hardware or data storage, such as one or more memory storage devices (for example, SD card). In some cases, communication of data can be performed non-electronically, such as visually, audibly, or tactilely, and one or more of the communication device <NUM> or computing device <NUM> can provide an interface for such non-electronic communication of data.

Computing device <NUM> can further process data collected by the dressing <NUM>. For example, the computing device <NUM> can aggregate data collected from the dressing <NUM> and perfusion determination device <NUM>, which is configured to determine skin perfusion pressure and communicate data to the computing device <NUM> via a wired or wireless interface. For example, wired USB protocol can be used for communication between devices <NUM> and <NUM>.

Computing device <NUM> can be configured to communicate via a wired or wireless interface with a remote computing device <NUM> that stores and processes medical data. In some cases, remote computing device <NUM> can be a cloud computing device, which includes one or more of remote storage, server, processing device, or any means of information storage. For example, remote computing device <NUM> can process and store medical data according with one or more applicable security and privacy standards, such as Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA), European Union's Directive on Data Protection, or the like. Remote computing device <NUM> can make data provided by one or more of the computing device <NUM> or the mobile device <NUM> available for remote accessing and viewing, such as on a mobile device <NUM>. In certain implementations, additional data can be added for storage on the remote computing device <NUM>. For example, additional data can be added by the mobile device <NUM> via a dedicated app, web browser interface, or the like. The remote computing device <NUM> can process the data from one or more of the wound dressing <NUM>, perfusion determination device <NUM>, or the mobile device and assess or determine treatment plan, such as suggest or adjust one or more treatment therapies.

As described herein, mobile device <NUM> can take one or more images of a patient's wound. Such data can be transmitted via wired or wireless interface to the remote computing device <NUM>. Although a smartphone is illustrated, mobile device <NUM> can be any suitable computing device that includes imaging functionality, such as a camera. Mobile device <NUM> can also collect additional data, such as data input by a healthcare provider in response to a questionnaire.

A wound dressing that incorporates a number of electronic components, including one or more sensors, can be utilized in order to monitor characteristics of a wound. Collecting and analyzing data from a wound can provide useful insights towards determining whether a wound is on a healing trajectory, selecting proper therapy, determining whether the wound has healed, or the like.

In some implementations, a number of sensor technologies can be used in wound dressings or one or more components forming part of an overall wound dressing apparatus. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, one or more sensors can be incorporated onto or into a substrate (such substrate can be referred to as "sensor integrated substrate" or "sensor enable substrate"). The substrate is illustrated as having a square shape, but it will be appreciated that the substrate may have other shapes such as rectangular, circular, oval, etc. In some cases, a substrate supporting one or more sensors can be provided as an individual material layer that is placed directly or indirectly over or in a wound. The sensor integrated substrate can be part of a larger wound dressing apparatus. In some cases, the sensor integrated substrate is part of a single unit dressing. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor integrated substrate can be placed directly or indirectly over or in the wound and then covered by a secondary wound dressing, which can include one or more of gauze, foam or other wound packing material, a superabsorbent layer, a drape, a fully integrated dressing like the Pico or Allevyn Life dressing manufactured by Smith & Nephew, or the like.

The sensor integrated substrate can be placed in contact with a wound and can allow fluid to pass through the substrate while causing little to no damage to the tissue in the wound. The substrate can be flexible, elastic, extensible, or stretchable or substantially flexible, elastic, extensible, or stretchable in order to conform to or cover the wound. For example, the substrate can be made from a stretchable or substantially stretchable material, such as one or more of polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyimide, polyamide, polyester, polyethelene tetraphthalate (PET), polybutalene tetreaphthalate (PBT), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyetherimide (PEI), along with various fluropolymers (FEP) and copolymers, or another suitable material.

Stretchable or substantially stretchable material can be stretched to <NUM>% or less or more, <NUM>% or less or more, <NUM>% or less or more, or more than <NUM>% of its starting dimensions, such as length or width. In some cases, the stretchable or substantially stretchable material can return to within <NUM>% or less or more of the starting dimensions (such as length or width) after being stretched.

In some cases, the substrate can include one or more flexible circuit boards, which can be formed of flexible polymers, including polyamide, polyimide (PI), polyester, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyetherimide (PEI), along with various fluropolymers (FEP) and copolymers, or the like. One or more sensors can be incorporated into a two-layer flexible circuit. In some scenarios, the one or more circuit boards can be a multi-layer flexible circuit board.

In some cases, the sensor integrated substrate can incorporate adhesive, such as a wound contact layer as described herein, that adheres to wet or dry tissue. In some cases, one or more sensors, which can be positioned one or more flexible circuits, can be incorporated into any layer of the wound dressing. For example, a wound contact layer can have cutouts or slits that allow for one or more sensors to protrude out of the lower surface of the wound contact layer and contact the wound directly. In some situations, one or more sensors can be incorporated into or encapsulated within other components of a wound dressing, such as an absorbent layer.

As shown in <FIG>, a sensor integrated substrate 100B can support a plurality of electronic components and a plurality of electrical connections interconnecting at least some of the components. The electronic components can be one or more of any electronic components described herein, such as a sensor, amplifier, capacitor, resistor, inductor, controller, processor, diode, or the like. The electrical connections can electrically connect one or more of the electronic components. The electrical connections can be traces or tracks printed on the substrate, such as using copper, conductive ink (such as ink that includes any one or any combination of silver, graphite, carbon, graphene, graphene oxide, carbon nanotube, nano-silver), nanotechnology-based conductive ink, organic conductive ink, etc.), or the like. At least some of the electrical connections can be flexible or stretchable or substantially flexible or stretchable.

The plurality of electronic components can include one or more impedance or conductivity sensors <NUM>, which can be arranged in an outer 4x4 grid and an inner 4x4 grid as illustrated in <FIG>. Sensors <NUM> are illustrated as pads configured to measure impedance or conductivity of tissue across any pair of the pads. Two (or more) excitation pads <NUM> can be arranged as illustrated to provide the excitation signal across the pads, which is conducted by the tissue and responsive to which impedance or conductance of the tissue can be measured across the pads <NUM>. Electronic components, such as one or more amplifiers <NUM>, can be used to measure impedance or conductance of the tissue. Impedance or conductance measurements can be used to identify living and dead tissue, monitor progress of healing, or the like. The arrangement of the pads <NUM> in the inner and outer grids can be used to measure the impedance or conductance of the wound, perimeter of the wound, or tissue or areas surrounding the wound.

The plurality of electronic components can include one or more temperature sensors <NUM> configured to measure temperature of the wound or surrounding tissue. For example, nine temperature sensors arranged around the perimeter of the substrate 100B. One or more temperature sensors can include one or more thermocouples or thermistors. One or more temperature sensors can be calibrated and the data obtained from the one or more sensors can be processed to provide information about the wound environment. In some cases, an ambient sensor measuring ambient air temperature can also be used to assist in eliminating problems associated with environment temperature shifts.

The plurality of electronic components can include one or more optical sensors <NUM>. One or more optical sensors <NUM> can be configured to measure wound appearance or image the wound. In some cases, a light source or illumination source that emits light and a light sensor or detector that detects light reflected by the wound are used as one or more optical sensors. The light source can be a light emitting diode (LED), such as one or more of white LED, red, green, blue (RGB) LED, ultraviolet (UV) LED, or the like. The light sensor can be one or more of an RGB sensor configured to detect color, infrared (IR) color sensor, UV sensor, or the like. In some cases, both the light source and detector would be pressed up against the skin, such that light would penetrate into the tissue and take on the spectral features of the tissue itself. In some scenarios, one or more optical sensor can include an imaging device, such as a charge-coupled device (CCD), CMOS image sensor, or the like.

In some cases, ultra bright LEDs, an RGB sensor, and polyester optical filters can be used as components of the one or more optical sensors to measure through tissue color differentiation. For example, because surface color can be measured from reflected light, a color can be measured from light which has passed through the tissue first for a given geometry. This can include color sensing from diffuse scattered light, from an LED in contact with the skin, or the like. In some cases, an LED can be used with a proximal RGB sensor to detect the light which has diffused through the tissue. The optical sensors can image with diffuse internal light or surface reflected light.

One or more of the plurality of electronic components can be controlled by a control module. The control module can receive and process one or more measurements obtained by the one or more sensors. An external control module, such as <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, can be connected to at least some of the plurality of electronic components via a connector (for example, connector <NUM> in <FIG>). In some cases, the connector <NUM> can be positioned at the end of a conductive track portion as illustrated in <FIG> or attached to the conductive track portion at a position away from the end as illustrated in <FIG> (such as, attached to the top of the track portion with glue). The control module can include one or more controllers or microprocessors, memory, or the like. In some cases, one or more controllers can be positioned on the substrate, and the connector <NUM> is not used. In some cases, data and commands can be communicated wirelessly, such as by a transceiver positioned on the substrate, and the connector <NUM> is not used.

In some cases, additional or alternative sensors can be positioned on the substrate, such as one or more pH sensors, pressure sensors, perfusion sensors, or the like.

In some cases, a substrate can be perforated as illustrated in <FIG>. A plurality of perforations <NUM> can be formed in the substrate 100C, allowing fluid to pass through the substrate. It may be advantageous to use a perforated substrate in conjunction with application of negative pressure wound therapy, during which reduced pressure is applied to the wound covered by a dressing and which causes removal of fluid (such as wound exudate) from the wound. Perforations <NUM> can be formed around a plurality of electronic components and connections as illustrated in <FIG>. Perforations <NUM> can be formed as slits or holes. In some cases, perforations <NUM> can be small enough to help prevent tissue ingrowth while allowing fluid to pass through the substrate.

In some cases, the substrate can be coated to encapsulate or coat one or more of the substrate or components supported by the substrate. Coating can provide biocompatibility, shield or protect the electronics from coming into contact with fluids, provide padding for the electronic components to increase patient comfort, or the like. Such coating can be sometimes referred to as "conformal coat" or "soft coat. " Soft coat can be stretchable or substantially stretchable. Soft coat can be hydrophobic or substantially hydrophobic.

Soft coat can be formed from one or more suitable polymers, adhesives, such as <NUM>-M adhesive (for example, Dymax <NUM>-M), <NUM>-M adhesive (such as, Dymax <NUM>-M), parylene (such as, Parylene C), silicones, epoxies, urethanes, acrylated urethanes, acrylated urethane alternatives (such as, Henkel Loctite <NUM>), or other suitable biocompatible and substantially stretchable materials. Soft coat can be thin coating, for example, from about <NUM> microns or less up to several millimeters or more. Soft coat can have hardness lower than about A100, A80, A50 or lower. Soft coat can have elongation at break higher than about <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% or more. Soft coat can have viscosity of about <NUM>,<NUM>-<NUM>,<NUM> centipoise (cP). In some cases, coating can have viscosity no less than about <NUM>,000cP. In some cases, coating can have viscosity less than about <NUM>,000cP.

In some cases, while it may be desirable for a substrate to be stretchable or substantially stretchable to better conform to or cover the wound, at least some of the electronic components or connections may not be stretchable or flexible. In such instances, undesirable or excessive localized strain or stress may be exerted on the one or more electronic components, such as on the supporting area or mountings of an electronic component, when the substrate is positioned in or over the wound. For example, such stress can be due to patient movement, changes in the shape or size of the wound (such as, due to its healing), or the like. Such stress may cause movement, dislodgment, or malfunction of the one or more electronic components or connections (for example, creation of an open circuit from a pin or another connector becoming disconnected). Alternatively or additionally, it may be desirable to maintain the position of one or more electronic components, such as one or more sensors, in the same or substantially same location or region with respect to the wound (such as, in contact with the wound) so that measurements collected by the one or more electronic components accurately capture changes over time in the same or substantially same location or region of the wound. While the surface of the stretchable substrate may move when, for example, the patient moves, it may be desirable to maintain same or substantially same locations of one or more electronic components relative to the wound.

To address these problems, in some cases, non-stretchable or substantially non-stretchable coating (such coating can sometimes be referred to as "hard coat") can be applied to one or more electronic components, one or more electrical connections, or the like. Hard coat can provide one or more of reinforcement or stress relief for one or more electronic components, one or more electrical connections, or the like. Hard coating can be formed from acrylated or modified urethane material. For example, hard coat can be one or more of Dymax <NUM>-M, Dymax <NUM>-E, Dymax <NUM>, Dymax <NUM>, Henkel Loctite <NUM>, or another suitable material. Hard coat can have viscosity from about <NUM>,500cP to <NUM>,000cP before being cured or from about <NUM>,600cP to about <NUM>,600cP before being cured. In some cases, hard coat can have viscosity of no more than about <NUM>,000cP. Hard coat can have hardness from about D40 to about D65 and/or linear shrinkage of about <NUM>-<NUM>%.

Any of the hard or soft coats described herein can be applied by one or more of laminating, adhering, welding (for instance, ultrasonic welding), curing by one or more of light, UV, thermal (such as, heat), or the like. Any of the hard or soft coat described herein can be transparent or substantially transparent to facilitate transmission of light through the coating, such as for optical sensing. Any of the coatings described herein can retain bond strength when subjected to sterilization, such as EtO sterilization. Any of the coatings described herein can be modified to fluoresce, such as under UV light.

In some implementations, borders or edges of the substrate can be smoothed by cuts, have smooth contours, include fibers, or the like to improve patient comfort.

In some cases, the substrate can include one or more antennas for wireless communication. For example, one or more antennas can be printed as one or more connections or traces on the substrate. The one or more antennas can be used to communicate measurement data collected by the one or more sensors without using a controller, such as the control module <NUM>. The one or more antennas can additionally be used to receive power wirelessly from a power source. In certain cases, the one or more antenna traces can be positioned on a substantially non-stretchable material (as described herein) such that the resonant frequencies of the one or more antennas remain fixed when the substrate is placed under stress when in use on a patient. Fixing the one or more resonant frequencies can be advantageous for certain communication protocols, such as RFID.

Any of the systems and methods disclosed herein can be used in combination with any of the features disclosed in one or more of G. Application No. <CIT>, which describes various dressings and components thereof; and G. Application No. <CIT>, which describes various dressings and components thereof. The disclosure of each of these applications is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

<FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an example wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus <NUM> that includes an electronic component <NUM> electrically coupled to a substrate <NUM> via soldering paste <NUM> and a plurality of electrical connections <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus <NUM> can include fewer or more components as desired. For example, the substrate <NUM> can be electrically coupled to one or more different or additional electronic components via the same or other electrical connections. Furthermore, in some cases, the electronic component <NUM> can be coupled directly to the electrical connections <NUM>, for example rather than being indirectly coupled to the electrical connections <NUM> via the soldering paste <NUM>.

The electronic component <NUM> can be the same or similar to any electronic component described herein, such as a sensor, amplifier, capacitor, resistor, inductor, controller, processor, diode, connector, or the like. As illustrated, the electronic component <NUM> can include a plurality of electrical connectors <NUM>. For example, the electronic component <NUM> can include one or more electrical connectors <NUM> for power, ground, inputs, outputs, data, etc. In some cases, the electrical connectors <NUM> include one or more of electrical pads, pins, or tabs. The electrical connectors <NUM> can be utilized to electrically connect the electronic component <NUM> to one or more other electronic components, or one or more electrical connections <NUM>, such as traces or tracks printed on the substrate <NUM>.

The substrate <NUM> can be the same or similar to any combination of one or more of the substrates described herein. For example, the substrate <NUM> can include any combination of one or more features or characteristics of the sensor integrated substrate 100B of <FIG> or the sensor integrated substrate 100C of <FIG>. For example, in some cases, the substrate <NUM> is flexible, elastic, extensible, or stretchable or substantially flexible, elastic, extensible, or stretchable in order to conform to or cover the wound. In some cases, it can be advantageous to utilize electrical connections <NUM> that can be stretched. In some cases, areas of the substrate <NUM> that include electronic components <NUM> can be more rigid, or less flexible, than other areas of the substrate <NUM>. In some cases, the substrate <NUM> can include one or more fibers, such as cotton or other textile fibers.

The electrical connections <NUM> can be printed on or integrated with the substrate <NUM>. For example, the electrical connections <NUM> can be screen printed on to the substrate. In some cases, the electrical connections <NUM> allow various electrical signals, connections, and/or power to be routed on, off, around, or through the substrate <NUM>. For example, a combination of one or more of the electrical connections <NUM> can electrically connect various points of the substrate and/or electrically connect various electronic components positioned on or off the substrate <NUM>.

In some cases, one or more of the electrical connections <NUM> include traces or tracks printed on the substrate <NUM>. For example, the electrical connections <NUM> can include a combination of one or more of copper, conductive inks (for example, inks that include one or more of silver, graphite, carbon, graphene, graphene oxide, carbon nanotube, nano-silver), nanotechnology-based conductive inks, organic conductive inks, etc., conductive glues, conductive tapes, fibers, soldering pastes, or the like. As described herein, in some cases, the electrical connections <NUM> can include one or more types of conductive inks, conductive glues, conductive tapes, fibers, soldering pastes, or the like. For example, a first type of conductive ink may be utilized in a first location on the substrate <NUM>, and a second type of conductive ink may be utilized in a second location on the substrate <NUM>. In some such examples, the use or placement of different types of conductive inks can be based at least in part on one or more characteristics or properties of the conductive inks. For instance, a more conductive ink may be utilized in regions or areas for soldering, and a different ink (for example, one whose resistance doesn't drastically change when the ink is stretched) can be utilized in one or more other areas on the substrate <NUM>. In this way, the wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus <NUM> can make use of the advantages of multiple conductive inks. As another example, a more conductive ink, or an ink having a smaller impedance, may be utilized for communication signals, such as antenna traces.

In some cases, one or more of portions of soldering paste <NUM> can be printed on the electrical connections <NUM> or the substrate <NUM>. For example, the soldering paste <NUM> can be printed on the electrical connections <NUM> and/or the substrate <NUM>, and then it can be heated (along with the rest of the board) to melt the soldering paste <NUM> and form a mechanical bond as well as an electrical connection. In some cases, the soldering paste <NUM> is replaced with a different material, such as a conductive glue or conductive tape. In some cases, the wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus <NUM> does not include soldering paste <NUM>. For example, in some cases, the electronic component <NUM> can be coupled directly to the electrical connections <NUM> rather than being indirectly coupled to the electrical connections <NUM> via the soldering paste <NUM>.

Different types of conductive inks can have different properties and/or characteristics. For example, the impedance, impedance variance (for example, due to stretching of the ink), thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, etc. can vary based on the type of ink used. It follows that some inks may be better for some purposes, while other inks may be better for other purposes. Accordingly, in some cases, a wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus <NUM> can utilize electrical connections <NUM> that include multiple types of conductive inks. Furthermore, in some cases, a particular type of conductive ink can be arranged on the substrate <NUM> based on its advantageous properties. In this way, in some implementations, two or more different types of conductive inks can be arranged on (or coupled to) the substrate <NUM>, for example, to exploit the beneficial characteristics of the different types of conductive inks. However, it will be understood that, in some cases, one or more types of conductive ink can be arranged on the substrate <NUM> without regard to, or in opposition to, one or more of its characteristics (e.g., thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, impedance, flexibility, etc.).

Similar to <FIG>, <FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an example wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus <NUM> that includes an electronic component <NUM> electrically coupled to a substrate <NUM> via soldering paste <NUM> and a plurality of electrical connections <NUM>. <FIG> further illustrates an example of the electrical connections <NUM> including multiple types of conductive ink. Specifically, the electrical connections <NUM> include a first type of conductive ink <NUM> (sometimes referred to herein as a first ink <NUM>) and a second type of conductive ink <NUM> (sometimes referred to herein as a second ink <NUM>). It will be appreciated that although <FIG> is discussed with respect to conductive ink, the electrical connections <NUM> can additionally or alternatively include one or more metals, conductive glues, conductive tapes, fibers, florescent elements, or the like. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that although only two types of conductive inks are shown, additional or different types of conductive inks can be utilized.

In some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> have one or more different characteristics, such as different thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, impedance, flexibility, or the like. For example, in some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> have different electrical conductivities. For instance, an ink with a relatively high conductivity may allow for thinner traces and/or may allow for improved electrical connections. As such, in some cases, the ink <NUM> or <NUM> having the higher conductivity can be utilized in areas for various connections, such as contact areas of the electronic components <NUM> (for example, the areas to which the electronic components <NUM> connect to the substrate) and/or ink footprints around the electronic components <NUM>. Furthermore, in some cases, the ink <NUM> or <NUM> having the higher conductivity can be utilized for mounting electronic components <NUM> to the substrate <NUM>. Furthermore, in some cases, the ink <NUM> or <NUM> having the higher conductivity can be utilized for communication signals, such as antenna traces. As shown in the example of <FIG>, the first ink <NUM> is utilized to mount the electronic component <NUM>. Thus, in some cases, the first ink <NUM> is more conductive than the second ink <NUM>. However, in some cases, the second ink <NUM> is more conductive than the first ink <NUM>, or the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> have approximately equal conductivities. In some cases, one ink is more conductive than the other ink at least because it includes more or a particular metal (e.g., silver), it has a greater thickness, or a greater width.

In some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> have different thermal conductivities. For example, in some cases, the first ink <NUM> has a higher thermal conductivity than does the second ink <NUM>, while in other cases, the second ink <NUM> has a higher thermal conductivity than the does the first ink <NUM>.

In some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> attach, adhere, or bond differently to soldering paste <NUM>. For example, in some cases, the first ink <NUM> makes a good electrical connections with the soldering paste <NUM>, and the second ink <NUM> does not make as good of an electrical connection with the soldering paste <NUM> as does the first ink <NUM>. In some cases, the soldering paste <NUM> at least partially overlaps with one or more of the first ink <NUM> or the second ink <NUM>. For example, the soldering paste <NUM> can be one layer of multiple layers on the substrate <NUM>.

In some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> have different impedance variabilities. For example, when stretched, the impedance on an ink may change. For instance, in some cases, a conductive ink <NUM> or <NUM> may have a relatively low impedance variability such that, when stretched, the impedance of the ink remains relatively constant. As another example, in some cases, a conductive ink <NUM> or <NUM> may have a relatively high impedance variability such that, when stretched, the impedance of the ink fluctuates. In some cases, the first ink <NUM> has a higher impedance variability than does the second ink <NUM>, while in other cases, the second ink <NUM> has a higher impedance variability than the does the first ink <NUM>. As described herein, the substrate <NUM> is substantially flexible and is prone to flexing. As such, in some cases, to minimize or limit impedance changes due to stretching, it can be advantageous to utilize the ink with a lower impedance variability in at least some of the areas on the substrate <NUM> that are prone to flex or stretch.

As shown, in the example of <FIG>, the second ink <NUM> is utilized for making electrical connections other than those for mounting the electronic components <NUM>. For example, the second ink <NUM> can form conductive traces that electrically connect various points or electronic devices on the substrate <NUM>. As another example, the second ink <NUM> can electrically couple two different portions of first ink <NUM> or create a connection to a component or device that resides off of the substrate <NUM>.

It will be appreciated that the arrangement of the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> can change, as desired, or can change, for example based on the properties and/or characteristics of the first and second inks <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, in some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> are at least partially mixed or are at least partially overlapping. As another example, the first and second inks <NUM>, <NUM> can be shorter, longer, thinner, or thicker than illustrated. Furthermore, in some cases, at least some portions of the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> are directly connected to each other. In some cases, at least some portions of the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> are indirectly connected to each other. For example, at least some portions of the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> can be connected to each other via conductive glue, conductive tape, or the like.

Furthermore, in some cases, the electrical connections <NUM> can include a fewer or greater number of types of conductive ink. For instance, a particular electrical connection <NUM> can include a first conductive ink, while a different electrical connection <NUM> can include a second conductive ink and a third conductive ink.

Similar to <FIG> and <FIG>, <FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an example wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus <NUM> that includes an electronic component <NUM> electrically coupled to a substrate <NUM> via soldering paste <NUM> and a plurality of electrical connections <NUM>. <FIG> further illustrates an example of the electrical connections <NUM> including multiple types of conductive ink (e.g., first ink <NUM> and second ink <NUM>) and a conductive medium <NUM> between the multiple types of conductive ink.

In some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> can at least partially overlap. For example, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> can at least partially overlap at joining points or the points at which the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> converge. In some cases, overlapping the inks <NUM> and <NUM> at the convergence point can improve an electrical connection between the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM>, for example, as compared to connecting them in a side-by-side manner. Although illustrated as the first ink <NUM> extending over so as to cover partly at least a portion of the second ink <NUM>, in some cases, to overlap the inks, at least one portion of the second ink <NUM> extends over so as to cover partly at least a portion of the first ink <NUM>. Furthermore, it will be understood that the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> can have various configurations. For example, in some cases, at least some portions of the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> are side-by-side. As another example, in some cases, at least some portions of the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> are mixed together or are layered on each other.

In some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> can be connected together using a conductive medium <NUM>. For example, the conductive medium <NUM> can include soldering paste, conductive glue, conductive tape, or the like. In some cases, the conductive medium <NUM> improves the connectivity between the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM>. However, it will be understood that, in some cases, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> are directly connected, without a conductive medium <NUM> in between. In some cases, any of the wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatuses <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> can include an isolation mask or layer. For example, an isolation mask can be printed between two or more electrical connections <NUM> in order keep the electrical connections <NUM> isolation. In some cases, the isolation mask allows stacking or layering of electrical connections <NUM> or electronic component <NUM>, such that the isolation mask electrically separates the stacked electrical connections <NUM> or electronic components <NUM>.

Similar to <FIG>, <FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an example wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus <NUM> that includes an electronic component <NUM> electrically coupled to a substrate <NUM> via a plurality of electrical connections <NUM>. <FIG> further illustrates an example of the electrical connections <NUM> including a plurality of electrical textiles <NUM> embedded in at least a portion (e.g., in the conductive ink, conductive medium, etc.) of the electrical connections <NUM>. In some cases, the electrical textiles <NUM> can lower impedance variability due to stretching of the electrical connection <NUM>. For example, in some cases, during stretching of the electrical connection <NUM>, the electrical textiles <NUM> can move around within the electrical connection <NUM>, but can maintain a connection with other electrical textiles <NUM> in the electrical connection <NUM>. In this way, the electrical textiles <NUM> can prevent or limit changes in impedance due to stretching.

As illustrated, one or more of the electrical connections <NUM> can include the electrical textiles <NUM>. For instance, in cases in which the electrical connections <NUM> include conductive ink, one or more electrical textiles <NUM> can be in the conductive ink. In some cases, electrical textiles <NUM> can be utilized in conductive inks that are prone to impedance variability due to stretching, such as in some examples of the first ink <NUM>. In some cases, utilizing electrical textiles <NUM> in this way allow the electrical connections <NUM> to be thinner, or include thinner traces.

In some cases, the electrical textiles <NUM> can include a fiber, such as a single type of fiber or a blend of two or more types of fibers. For example, the electrical textiles <NUM> can include, but are not limited to, cotton, wool, jute, silk, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, Kevlar, or synthetic fibers.

It will be appreciated that the electrical textiles <NUM> can be embedded in different patterns and densities, and that the electrical textiles <NUM> can have one or more different lengths. For example, in some cases, the electrical textiles <NUM> include one or more continuous strands of fiber <NUM> that extend throughout the length of an electrical connection <NUM>. As another example, in some cases, the electrical textiles <NUM> include a plurality of relatively short electrical textiles <NUM>. For instance, during stretching of the electrical connection <NUM>, one or more electrical textiles <NUM> can move within the electrical connection <NUM> to move toward or away from other electrical textiles <NUM>. In some cases, at least some of the electrical textiles <NUM> remain in contact with each other. For example, the electrical textiles <NUM> can be tightly condensed into the electrical connection <NUM>. In some cases, at least some of the electrical textiles <NUM> do not touch any other electrical textiles <NUM>. For example, the electrical textiles <NUM> can be spaced throughout the electrical connection <NUM>.

As illustrated, in some cases, the electrical connection <NUM> is directly coupled to the electrical connectors <NUM>. However, it will be understood that the electrical connection <NUM> can be indirectly coupled to the electrical connectors <NUM>, for example via soldering paste or conductive glue.

In some cases, the electrical connections <NUM> can include one or more components or markers, which can allow for quality control of one or more various connections. For example, in some cases, the electrical connections <NUM> include a fluorescent component. In some cases, a fluorescent component can be used for quality control, for example, checking the connections under UV light. As another example, in some cases, the electrical connections <NUM> can include radio transparent material that can be visible, or seen under x-ray or MRI. In some cases, these components or markers can be biodegradable. In some cases, these markers could be used for quality control and/or can allow a user to check whether electronics are present in the wound and/or wound dressing, or where the electronics are present.

<FIG> illustrate substrates <NUM> that support a plurality of electronic components <NUM> and a plurality of electrical connections <NUM> electrically connecting one or more of the electronic components <NUM>. As discussed herein, the electrical connections <NUM> can include a first type of conductive ink <NUM> of a second type of conductive ink <NUM>. Furthermore, as described herein, the first ink <NUM> and the second ink <NUM> can have one or more different characteristics or properties, such as different impedance, impedance variance (for example, due stretching of the ink), thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, or the like.

As described herein, in some cases, the substrate <NUM> is flexible, elastic, extensible, or stretchable or substantially flexible, elastic, extensible, or stretchable in order to conform to or cover the wound. Thus, in some cases, it can be advantageous to utilize electrical connections <NUM> that can be stretched. Furthermore, it can be advantageous to utilize electrical connections <NUM> whose properties (for example, resistance) are not substantially affected when the electrical connection <NUM> is stretched. In some cases, the second ink <NUM> may have less resistance variability due to stretching than does the first ink <NUM>. In some such examples, the second ink <NUM> may be selected to form portions of the electrical connections <NUM> that reside on areas of the substrate <NUM> that are likely to be flexed. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the electrical connections <NUM> that extend across the substrate <NUM> can include the second ink <NUM>.

In some cases, areas of the substrate <NUM> that include electronic components <NUM> can be more rigid, or less flexible, than other areas of the substrate <NUM>. In some such cases, the electrical connection <NUM> proximate (for example, under and/or around) the electronic component <NUM> can include the first ink <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, portions of the electrical connections <NUM> that are proximate an electronic component <NUM> can include the first ink <NUM>, while other portions of the electrical connections <NUM> can include the second ink <NUM>. In this way, the second ink <NUM> can be utilized to allow for electrical connections across the substrate <NUM> while also minimizing impedance changes due to stretching, and the first ink <NUM> can be utilized for its enhanced electrical and thermal conductivity, as compared to the second ink <NUM>.

In some cases, one or more electronic components can be positioned on the side of a substrate opposite the side that faces the wound. Systems and methods described herein are equally applicable to such substrates. Although certain embodiments described herein relate to wound dressings, systems and methods disclosed herein are not limited to wound dressings or medical applications. Systems and methods disclosed herein are generally applicable to electronic devices in general, such as electronic devices that can be worn by or applied to a user.

Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features or steps are mutually exclusive. The protection is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The protection extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken in the processes illustrated or disclosed may differ from those shown in the figures. For example, the actual steps or order of steps taken in the disclosed processes may differ from those shown in the figure. For instance, the various components illustrated in the figures may be implemented as software or firmware on a processor, controller, ASIC, FPGA, or dedicated hardware. Hardware components, such as controllers, processors, ASICs, FPGAs, and the like, can include logic circuitry.

Although the present disclosure includes certain embodiments, examples and applications, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof, including embodiments which do not provide all of the features and advantages set forth herein. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by the specific disclosures of preferred embodiments herein, and is defined by claims as presented herein.

Claim 1:
A sensor sheet of a wound monitoring and/or therapy apparatus, the sensor sheet comprising:
a plurality of electronic components comprising a first electronic component having a first electrical connector configured to electrically connect the first electronic component;
a substantially flexible substrate having a first, wound-facing side supporting the plurality of electronic components and a second side opposite the first side:
a track of first conductive ink residing on the substantially flexible substrate, the first conductive ink with a first impedance, and wherein the track of the first conductive ink is electrically coupled to the first electrical connector of the first electronic component;
a track of second conductive ink residing on the substantially flexible substrate, the second conductive ink with a second impedance different from the first impedance, and wherein the track of the second conductive ink is electrically coupled to the track of first conductive ink.