Method and apparatus for controlling positioning of a noninvasive analyzer sample probe

摘要

The invention relates generally to a probe interface method and apparatus for use in conjunction with an optical based noninvasive analyzer. More particularly, an algorithm controls a sample probe position and attitude relative to a skin sample site before and/or during sampling. For example, a sample probe head of a sample module is controlled by an algorithm along the normal-to-skin-axis. Preferably, the sample probe head is positioned in terms of 3-D location in the x-, y-, and z-axes and is attitude orientated in terms of pitch, yaw, and roll. Further, attitude of the probe head is preferably orientated prior to contact of the sample probe head with the tissue sample using indicators, such as non-contact distance feedback from capacitance sensor, contacting or non-contacting optical sensors, and/or contact electrical sensors.

主权项

1. A noninvasive spectroscopic analyzer configured to determine an analyte property from a sample site of a body part, comprising:
a sample probe having a sample probe tip; a controller for controlling attitude of said sample probe tip relative to localized curvature of the sample site based on an input; a first motor operating through a first pivot point positioned on a first concentric ring to move a second concentric ring to control pitch of said sample probe tip; and a second motor operating through a second pivot point positioned on the second concentric ring to move a third concentric ring to control roll of said sample probe tip; and wherein the controller adjusts the attitude including at least pitch and roll of said sample probe relative to the localized curvature of the sample site by controlling the first and second motors; wherein the input is configured to receive an input signal providing said controller with information about said attitude of said sample probe tip relative to the sample site.