WO2022130315A1

WO2022130315A1 - Data acquisition from sensor array

Info

Publication number: WO2022130315A1
Application number: PCT/IB2021/061916
Authority: WO
Inventors: Siddhartha Panda; Biswanath Panda; Shivam TRIVEDI; Rohit Bhargava; Karun MALHOTRA; Thachat Ragash
Original assignee: Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur; Murata Manufacturing Co Ltd
Current assignee: Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur; Murata Manufacturing Co Ltd
Priority date: 2020-12-18
Filing date: 2021-12-17
Publication date: 2022-06-23
Anticipated expiration: 2023-06-18
Also published as: CN116867435A

Abstract

Examples of a data acquisition (DAQ) system for acquiring data from a sensor array are described. The sensor array includes a plurality of resistive sensors. The DAQ system comprises a multiplexing module coupled to the sensor array, and a control module coupled to the multiplexing module. The control module is configured to select a first sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors, cause the multiplexing module to read the first sensor for a first time period, wherein the plurality of resistive sensors other than the first sensor are non-operational during the first time period, and determine a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor.

Description

DATA ACQUISITION FROM SENSOR ARRAY

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates, in general, to data acquisition. More specifically, the present subject matter relates to approaches for data acquisition from a sensor array.

BACKGROUND

[0002] With advancement of healthcare technologies, increasingly sophisticated medical devices are utilized for saving lives and curing people. To this end, early detection of an ailment or a disease has proven to be an efficient process in curing of the disease. Therefore, the emphasis is gradually shifting from treatment of a disease to prevention thereof. In such a case, sensor devices may be utilized for regular monitoring of physiological parameters of a patient. A sensor device may capture physiological data, such as biomedical signals, from the patient. Further, the physiological data may be processed and analysed to predict or identify an occurrence of a disease or an anomaly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0003] The features, aspects, and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood with regards to the following description and accompanying figures. The use of the same reference number in different figures indicate similar or identical features and components.

[0004] FIGS. 1 -3 illustrate a block diagram of a data acquisition system, as per various examples;

[0005] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a wearable electronic system comprising a data acquisition system, as per an example; and [0006] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram depicting a method for acquiring data from a sensor array, as per an example.

[0007] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearly illustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examples and/or implementations consistent with the description; however, the description is not limited to the examples and/or implementations provided in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] Regular monitoring of physiological parameters is crucial for timely diagnostic of health ailments and subsequent prevention. To this end, sensor devices may be used for acquiring physiological data from a subject. Such physiological data may then be interpreted and analysed for identifying any health ailment. Examples of physiological parameters include, but are not limited to, body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, serum levels, and immunological functions.

[0009] Typically, specialized sensor equipment may be utilized for acquiring relevant physiological data from the patient. Such sensor equipment may have complex architecture and may require involvement of skilled person for operation.

Therefore, the cost and inconvenience associated with the use of such sensor equipment inhibits its use for regular monitoring of the physiological parameters.

[0010] Recently, wearable sensor device may be utilized for realizing personalized and regular monitoring of physiological parameters of a subject. For example, the wearable sensor device may include a set of sensor devices and an electronic data acquisition device. The set of sensor devices may be integrated directly on the patient’s body as a patch or integrated into a garment to be worn by the patient. The set of sensor devices may read one or more physiological parameter of the patient. Further, the data acquisition device may acquire readings, such as biomedical signals, from the set of sensor devices and interpret physiological data for the subject therefrom. [0011 ] However, sensor data acquired from the set of sensor devices is corrupted by noise. Specifically, a reading acquired from a sensor device may be prone to interference owing to flow of current in adjacent or neighbouring sensor devices. To this end, the reading of the sensor device may not be precise. Such imprecise reading of the set of sensor devices may render the wearable sensor device unsuitable for medical applications. [0012] Furthermore, the data acquisition device may have complex wiring to acquire readings from each of the set of sensor devices. Subsequently, the data acquisition device may be bulky, cumbersome and fragile. In addition, the data acquisition device is dependent on a type of sensor, i.e., the data acquisition device may be capable of acquiring readings only from the set of sensor devices it is programmed for. Owing to this, the data acquisition device may not be capable of acquiring sensor data from different types of sensor in a reliable and cost-effective manner.

[0013] Approaches for acquiring sensor data from a sensor array, are described. In an example, the sensor array may include a plurality of resistive sensors (referred to as sensors, hereinafter). The sensors may be operable to sense or detect a changes in physical condition associated with the sensors. Examples of a resistive sensor may include, but is not limited to, thermocouple, thermistor, resistance temperature detector (RTD), lightdependent resistor (LDR), and thermometer. In one example, the sensors within the sensor array may be connected to each other in parallel configuration.

[0014] The sensor array may be coupled to a data acquisition (DAQ) system. The DAQ system may acquire signals the sensors in order to interpret sensor data from the signals. In particular, the DAQ system may sample the acquired signals that measure a changes in physical conditions of the sensors. Further, the DAQ system may convert the acquired signals into sensor output.

[0015] Pursuant to present subject matter, the DAQ system includes a multiplexing module. As would be understood, the multiplexing module may have several input channels, one output channel, and a selection channel. Subsequently, the input channels of the multiplexing module may be connected to a power source, and the output channel may be connected to all the sensors. The power source may be, for example, a current source, or a voltage source.

[0016] The DAQ system further includes a control module. The control module may be a hardware device, a software program, a firmware, or a combination thereof. The control module may be coupled to the multiplexing module. In one example, the selection channel of the multiplexing module may be connected to the control module. To this end, the control module may manage or direct flow of data, current, or voltage to the sensors of the sensor array.

[0017] In operation, the control module may select a first sensor from the sensors of the sensor array during a first time period. In this regard, the multiplexing module may select a first channel associated with the first sensor. The multiplexing module may supply an input voltage to the first sensor of the sensor array for the first time period. Further, the first sensor array may generate electrical signals (referred to as output voltage), wherein the output voltage indicates a change in a physical condition associated with the first sensor.

[0018] Further, the control module causes the multiplexing module to read the first sensor during the first time period. To this end, the plurality of resistive sensors other than the first sensor are non-operational or inactive during the first time period. Moreover, the multiplexing module may read the output voltage generated by the first sensor. The multiplexing module may the provide the output voltage to the control module.

[0019] Based on the output voltage, the control module may determine a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor. For example, the control module may determine a ratiometric measurement for the first sensor, wherein the ratiometric measurement may indicate a resistance across the first sensor. In a similar manner, sensor output for each of the sensors within the sensor array may be determined. It may be noted that the sensor output from each of the sensor may be determined during a corresponding time period. In one example, a sensor may be selected during a corresponding time period for acquiring sensor data corresponding thereto.

[0020] As would be understood, the various examples of the present subject matter provide a variety of technical advantages. The DAQ system described in the present subject matter may address the sensors of the sensor array in a robust manner in contrast to conventional large and bulky data acquisition devices. For example, the present disclosure provides direct wiring from each of the sensors to the multiplexing module in the DAQ system. Moreover, each of the sensors are read during corresponding time periods. Subsequently, interference between the sensors, referred to as crosstalk, in the sensor array may be substantially reduced. To this end, accurate and precise reading from each of the sensors of the sensor array may be determined. In one example, the sensor output may be up to two significant decimal digits. As would be understood, high precision of the sensor output may enable the DAQ system for medical applications. Moreover, the DAQ system may be adapted for acquiring sensor data from different types of sensor arrays having different ratings. Subsequently, the DAQ system described in the present subject matter may be independent of a type of the sensor array thereby enabling a use of the DAQ system in a universal manner with different types of sensor arrays. Due to the compact size of the DAQ system, portability as well as wearability of the DAQ system may be enhanced. The DAQ system implements efficiently in low power mode. Owing to less cost, compact body and ease of self-operation, the DAQ system may be used for regular personalized medical diagnosis in a comfortable way.

[0021] The above examples are further described in conjunction with appended figures FIGS. 1 -5. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. It will thus be appreciated that various arrangements that embody the principles of the present subject matter, although not explicitly described or shown herein, may be devised from the description and are included within its scope. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components.

[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a data acquisition system 100, as per an example. The data acquisition (DAQ) system 100 may be coupled to a sensor array 102. The sensor array 102 may include a plurality of resistive sensors (not shown in FIG. 1 ). As would be understood, a resistive sensor may convert a mechanical change into change in resistance across the resistive sensor. For example, the mechanical change may be caused due to a change in temperature, light, humidity, pressure, displacement, and the like. To this end, an electrical signal generated by the resistive sensor may correspond to such change in physical conditions associated with the resistive sensor. Moreover, such electrical signals may be a voltage signal, or a current signal.

[0023] The electrical signals generated by the plurality of resistive sensors of the sensor array are read by the DAQ system 100. The DAQ system 100 is electrically coupled with the sensor array 102, either directly or through other connecting means. Example of the connecting means include, but are not limited to, data transmission cables, power transmission cables, and electrical wire.

[0024] The DAQ system 100 includes a control module 104. For example, the control module 104 may control operation of the DAQ system 100 for acquiring sensor output from the sensor array 102. The control module 104 may be implemented as either software installed within the DAQ system 100, or as hardware in the form of electronic circuitry integrated within the circuitry of the DAQ system 100.

[0025] Further, the DAQ system 100 includes a multiplexing module 106. In one example, the multiplexing module 106 may include at least one multiplexing device (not shown in FIG. 1 ). The multiplexing module 106 may include several input channels, a single output channel, and a selection channel. In an example, the input channels of the multiplexing module may be connected to a power source 108, and the output channel may be connected to all the sensors of the sensor array 102 in a parallel manner. Moreover, the selection channel of the multiplexing module may be connected to the control module 104.

[0026] In operation, the control module 104 may select a first sensor (not shown in FIG. 1 ) from the plurality of resistive sensors within the sensor array 102. Once the first sensor is selected, the multiplexing module 106 selects a first channel associated with the first sensor and forwards input power from the power source 108 to the first sensor. In this manner, the control module 104 may manage or direct flow of power to the first sensor during a first time period. During the first time period, he plurality of resistive sensors other than the first sensor are non-operational. Specifically, the input power is supplied only to the first sensor during the first time period thereby rendering the other resistive sensors of the sensor array 102 as inactive.

[0027] Thereafter, the control module 104 causes the multiplexing module 106 to read the first sensor during the first time period. As would be understood, the first sensor may generate electrical signals, such as output voltage, and output current, when the input power is supplied thereto. Moreover, such generated electrical signals may be indicative of physical conditions associated with the first sensor. Subsequently, the multiplexing module 106 reads the electrical signals generated by the first sensor of the sensor array 102. [0028] The multiplexing module 106 provides the electrical signals to the control module 104. Subsequently, the control module 104 determines a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor. In this manner, sensor output may be acquired from the first sensor of the sensor array 102. In a similar manner, sensor output for other resistive sensors of the sensor array 102 may be determined iteratively. These and other examples for acquiring data from the sensor array 102 are further described in conjunction with FIG. 2.

[0029] FIG. 2 provides a block diagram of a data acquisition (DAQ) system 100, as per an example. The DAQ 100 includes processor(s) 202, memory(s) 204 and interface(s) 206. The processor(s) 202 may be a single processing unit or may include a number of units, all of which could include multiple computing units. The processor(s) 202 may be implemented as one or more microprocessor, microcomputers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. The processor(s) 202 may be adapted to fetch and execute processor-readable instructions stored in the memory(s) 204 to implement one or more functionalities. The processors(s) 202 may be operable to extract, receive, process, share and store information based on instructions that drive the DAQ 100.

[0030] The memory(s) 204 may be coupled to the processor(s) 202. The memory(s) 204 may include any computer-readable medium known in the art including, for example, volatile memory, such as Static Random-Access Memory (SRAM) and Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable ROMs (EPROMs), flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and magnetic tapes.

[0031] The interface(s) 206 may include a variety of software and hardware enabled interfaces. The interface(s) 206 may facilitate multiple communications within a wide variety of protocols and may also enable communication with one or more computer enabled terminals or similar network components.

[0032] The DAQ system 100 may further include other component(s) 208. The other component(s) 208 may include a variety of other electrical components that enable functionalities of reading, acquiring or obtaining output from sensor array (such as the sensor array 102). Example of such other component(s) 208 include, but is not limited to, switch(es), housing, power source(s), socket(s), port(s), voltage regulator(s), alarm, indicator(s), and controller(s).

[0033] The DAQ system 100 further includes one or more module(s) 210. The module(s) 210 may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement a variety of functionalities of the module(s) 210. In examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the module(s) 210 may be executable instructions. Such instructions in turn may be stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium which may be coupled either directly with the DAQ system 100 or indirectly (for example, through networked means). In an example, the module(s) 210 may include a processing resource (for example, either a single processor or a combination of multiple processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the processor-readable storage medium may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement module(s) 210. In other examples, module(s) 210 may be implemented as electronic circuitry.

[0034] The module(s) 210 include a control module 104, a multiplexing module 106, a converter module 214, a storage module 216, a fault detection module 218, and other module(s) 220. The other module(s) 220 may further implement functionalities that supplement applications or functions performed by the DAQ system 100 or any of the module(s) 210. [0035] The data 212 includes data that is either stored or generated as a result of functionalities implemented by any of the module(s) 210. It may be further noted that information stored and available in the data 212 may be utilized for acquiring output from the sensor array 102 or may correspond to output acquired from the sensor array 102. The data 212 may include constant current value 222, sensor output 224 and other data 226. The constant current value 222 may include magnitude of current to be provided to the sensor array 102; and the sensor output 224 may include sensor data acquired from the sensor array 102. The other data 226 may include information, for example, associated with the operation of the DAQ system 100.

[0036] In operation, the control module 104 may determine the constant current value 222 for the sensor array 102. For example, the control module 104 may determine the constant current value 222 for the sensor array 102 based on a rating of the plurality of resistive sensors within the sensor array 102. Based on the constant current value 222, the power source within the DAQ system 100 may generate a constant current for the sensor array 102. [0037] Continuing further with the present example, the control module 104 may select a first sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors of the sensor array 102. An indication of such selection of the first sensor may be provided to the multiplexing module 106. Subsequently, the multiplexing module 106 may select a first channel associated with the first sensor and supply the constant current to the first sensor for the first time period.

[0038] Thereafter, the control module 104 may cause the multiplexing module 106 to read an output generated by the first sensor. To this end, electrical signals generated by the first sensor may be read by the multiplexing module 106. Since the constant current is supplied only to the selected first channel associated with the first sensor, the plurality of resistive sensors of the sensor array 102 other than the first sensor may be non-operational during the first time period. This eliminates any interference due to flow of current in the other sensors in the electrical signals read for the first sensor.

[0039] In one example, the multiplexing module 106 may further provide the electrical signals to the converter module 214. For example, the converter module may include an analog-to digital converter. To this end, the analog-to digital converter may translate the analog electrical signals generated by the first sensor into digital signals. Examples of the analog-to digital converter (ADC) may include, but is not limited to, flash ADC, slope integration ADC, and successive approximation ADC.

[0040] Continuing further, the electrical signals generated by the first sensor may be provided to the control module 104. In this regard, the converter module 214 may provide the digital signals corresponding to the output of the first sensor to the control module 104. Thereafter, the control module 104 may process the digital signals to determine a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor. The first sensor output for the first sensor may be stored within the storage module 216.

[0041] In this manner, each of the plurality of resistive sensors of the sensor array may be read sequentially during a corresponding time period. Further, sensor output for the sensor array 102 may be stored as the sensor output 224 within the storage module 216. Examples of the storage module 216 may include, but is not limited to, volatile memory, such as Static Random-Access Memory (SRAM) and Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable ROMs (EPROMs), flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and magnetic tapes

[0042] In certain cases, the fault detection module 218 may implement a fault detection mechanism for the DAQ system 100. In one example, the fault detection module 218 may detect a hardware error within the DAQ system 100 and/or the sensor array 102, such as loose connections, faulty connections, or sensor misplacement. For example, the fault detection module 218 may detect the hardware error based on high impedance state within the DAQ system 100 or the sensor array 102, an out of range signal value from a selected resistive sensor of the sensor array 102, or an out of range value from the multiplexing module 106 or the converter module 214. On detection of the hardware error, the fault detection module 218 may notify a user of the DAQ system 100. In one example, the fault detection module 218 provides a notification in a user identifiable text language on an electronic device associated with the user and/or the DAQ system 100.

[0043] In an example, the fault detection module 218 may be implemented as a software program within the DAQ system 100 or the control module 104. In another example, the fault detection module 218 may be implemented as a hardware circuitry within the DAQ system 100.

[0044] In one example, the control module 104 may time-stamp the first sensor output 224 corresponding to the first sensor. For example, the timestamp may specify a date and a time at which the first sensor output was determined. Similarly, the control module 104 may time-stamp each of the sensor outputs within the sensor output 224. Moreover, the control module 104 may associate an identification of the first sensor with the first sensor output. Once the sensor output 224 for all of the plurality of resistive sensors of the sensor array are time-stamped, the control module 104 may store the sensor output 224 as a log file within the storage module 214.

[0045] In certain cases, the control module 104 may notify the user of the DAQ system 100 on completion of the data acquisition from the sensor array 102. In another example, on completion of a first iteration of data acquisition for the sensor array 102, the control module 104 may initiate a second iteration of data acquisition for the sensor array 102. Such iterative data acquisition may be performed in continuous manner until a specified number of iteration is reached, or the DAQ system 100 or sensor array 100 is powered OFF.

[0046] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a data acquisition (DAQ) system 300, as per an example. The DAQ system 300 may be utilized for acquisition of sensor data or sensor output from a sensor array 102. In one example, the sensor array 102 may be a medical device adhering to body and requiring highly sensitive data acquisition. Subsequently, the DAQ system 300 may be used for medical applications that enables precise data acquisition from the sensor array 102, while maintaining low power consumption, compactness, and portability of the DAQ system 300.

[0047] The sensor array 102 may include a plurality of resistive sensors (referred to as sensors hereinafter). In one example, the sensor array 102 may include 32 resistive sensors arranged in parallel to each other.

[0048] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the DAQ system 300 includes a control module 104. In one example, the control module 104 may include a microcontroller. The microcontroller may include a processing resource, memory and input/output peripherals. For example, the microcontroller may control operations of the DAQ system 300 and the sensor array 102. The microcontroller may be, for example, 4-bit, 8-bit, 16-bit, or 32-bit. It may be noted that the control module 104 may include a single microcontroller or a plurality of microcontroller connected in series or parallel configuration.

[0049] Further, the DAQ system 300 includes a power source 302 coupled to the control module 104. The power source 302 includes a programmable constant current source connected with a sense resistor Flsense. The sense resistor R_sense may be coupled in series with the sensor array 102, or each of the sensors of the sensor array 102. The control module 104 may determine a value of constant current to be generated by the programmable constant current source. In one example, the value of the constant current determined by the control module 104 may be based on a type or a rating of the sensors of the sensor array 102. Moreover, the value of the constant current to be generated by the programmable constant current source may be in a range of 250 Nano amperes to 1 milli amperes. [0050] In one example, the control module 104 may adjust the programmable constant current source and the sense resistor Rsense based on the value of constant current to be generated. The programmable constant current source ensures flexible input for the sensor array. Subsequently, the power source 302 may generate the constant current lj_n. [0051] Continuing further, the DAQ system 300 includes a multiplexing module 106. Moreover, the multiplexing module 106 may include a first multiplexer device (MUX1) 304 and a second multiplexer device (MUX2) 306. In one example, the MUX1 304 and the MUX2 306 may be a 32x1 multiplexer device. As would be understood, the MUX1 304 and the MUX2 306 may have 32 input channels, one output channel and selection channels. To this end, the 32 input channels of the MUX1 304 may be connected to the power source 302. Moreover, the output channel may be connected, in parallel, to each of the 32 sensors of the sensor array 102. Further, each of the 32 input channels of the MUX1 304 may be connected to a corresponding sensor of the sensor array 102, and the output channel of the MUX2306 may be connected to a converter module 214. As would be understood, a direct channel, such as a path, may be formed between each of the sensors and the DAQ system 300. Such channel, during operation, may provide a closed path for flow of data, current, or voltage to the corresponding sensors through electronic components, wires and/or cables. It may be understood, the use of 32x1 multiplexer device is only illustrative and should not be construed as limiting. In addition, a configuration of the multiplexing module 106 may be changed based on a number of sensors within the sensor array 102. Therefore, in other implementations of the present subject matter, the multiplexing module may include one or more multiplexing devices having a configuration of, for example, 2x1 , 4x1 , 8x1 , 16x1 , 32x1 , and so forth. To this end, the multiplexing module 106 facilitates use of a single communication bus for acquiring data from multiple sensors of the sensor array 102.

[0052] The DAQ system 300 also includes the converter module 214. The converter module 214 may include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), or both. Pursuant to present subject matter, the converter module 214 may include an ADC. As would be understood, the ADC may translate an analog signal into a digital signal. In one example, the ADC may be a 24-bit delta sigma ADC that translates a resistance for a resistive sensor into a temperature with 0.1 °C accuracy and 0.001 °C resolution.

[0053] In operation, the control module 104 may select a first sensor (not shown in FIG. 3) from the sensors of the sensor array 102. To this end, the control module 104 may provide an input to the selection channel of the MUX1 304 and the MUX2 306 in order to select the first sensor for data acquisition during a first time period. Subsequently, the MUX1 304 and the MUX2 306 of the multiplexing module 106 may select a first channel associated with the first sensor. During the first time period, the MUX1 304 supplies the constant current Im from the power source 302 to the first channel associated with the first sensor. In addition, channels corresponding to other sensors of the sensor array 102 other than the first sensor may remain in unpowered or non-operational state during the first time period.

[0054] Thereafter, the control module 104 may cause the multiplexing module 106 to read the first sensor. For example, the MUX2304 may read electrical signals generated by the first sensor. For example, the electrical signals generated by the first sensor may correspond to output voltage and/or output current across the first sensor. To this end, the MUX2 304 may read the output voltage and/or output current across the first sensor during for the first time period and provide it to the converter module 214.

[0055] Thereafter, the ADC of the converter module 214 may translate the analog electrical signals into digital signals. In one example, the ADC may convert the analog electrical signal across the first sensor into binary values. Such digital signal generated by the converter module 214 is then provided to the control module 104 for processing, analysis and interpretation.

[0056] The control module 104 of the DAQ system 300 may sample or process the digital signals generated by the first sensor of the sensor array 102. In one example, the control module 104 may determine a ratiometric measurement based on the digital signals correspoding to the first sensor. Specifically, the ratiometric measurement may be a ratio of output voltage and the output current across the first sensor. The ratiometric measurement may correspond to a resistance across the first sensor.

[0057] The value of the resistance may then be used for determining, for example, temperature, pressure, force, humidity, and displacement. For example, such conversion of the resistance may be performed based on a lookup table, or by solving Steinhart-Hart equations. In this manner, the control module 104 may determine a first sensor output, i.e., temperature, pressure, force, humidity, and displacement, sensed the first sensor. In certain cases, the control module 104 may further time-stamp the determined first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor and associate an identification of the first sensor with the first sensor output. The first sensor output may then be stored within a log file.

[0058] Thereafter, the control module 104 may select a second sensor (not shown in FIG. 3) from the sensors of the sensor array 102 during a second time period. For example, the second time period may occur after the first time period during which the first sensor output may be determined. It may be noted that the second time period may be distinct from the first time period, and may not overlap with the first time period. Further, the control module 104 may cause the multiplexing module 106, i.e., the MUX1 304 and the MUX2 306 to select and read the second sensor during the second time period. It may be noted that the MUX1 304 and the MUX2306 may be operated in a similar manner, as described above, to read the second sensor. The control module 104 may then determine a second sensor output corresponding to the second sensor, based on electrical signals generated by the second sensor during the second time period. Moreover, sensors other than the second sensor may be non-operational during the second time period. The second sensor output may also be time- stamped and associated with an identification of the second sensor. The second senor output may then be stored within the log file.

[0059] Subsequently, the control module 104 may determine sensor output corresponding to each of the sensors of the sensor array 102. Moreover, each of the sensor output may be time-stamped, associated with an identification of a corresponding sensor and stored within the log file. Such log file may then be stored within a storage module 216. The storage module 216 may be connected to the control module 104 and a communication module (not shown in FIG. 3). These and other examples for acquiring data from a sensor array are further described in conjunction with FIG. 4.

[0060] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a wearable electronic system 400 including a sensor array 402 and a DAQ system 404, as per an example. The sensor array 402 may include a plurality of resistive sensors (depicted as a first resistive sensor 406A and a second resistive sensor 406B). In one example, the wearable electronic system 400 may include more than 30 sensors. The first resistive sensor 406A and second resistive sensor 406B (collectively referred to as sensors 406) may be thermal sensors, wherein the thermal sensors may acquire skin surface temperature of a subject. In one example, the sensors 406 may sense body temperature for multiple points on breast of the subject. In such a case the wearable electronic system 400 may be capable of detecting breast cancer disease in a cost-effective and comfortable way.

[0061] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the sensor array 402 may be electrically coupled to the DAQ system 404. In one example, the sensor array 402 may be connected to the DAQ system 404 via a plug-in receptacle connector (not shown in FIG. 4). The plug-in receptacle connector may include a first portion and a second portion complimentary to the first portion. For example, the first portion of the plug-in receptacle connector may extend from the sensor array 402 while the second portion of the plug-in receptacle connector may extend from the DAQ system 404. To this end, the first portion of the plug-in receptacle connector may be attached to a first end of a first cable wherein a second end of the first cable may be attached to the sensor array 402. Similarly, the second portion of the plug-in receptacle connector may be attached to a first end of a second cable wherein a second end of the second cable may be attached to the DAQ system 404. The plug-in receptacle connector may be, for example, a mechanical connector, a magnetic male female pogo-pin connector, or a circular lemo connector.

[0062] The first portion of the plug-in receptacle connector may receive the second portion of the plug-in receptacle connector to enable coupling between the sensor array 402 and the DAQ system 404. Moreover, the plug-in receptacle connector may provide electrical as well as mechanical coupling between the sensor array 402 and the DAQ system 404. In certain cases, two or more plug-in receptacle connectors may be used for coupling the sensor array 402 and the DAQ system 404. Accordingly, two or more cables may extend from each of the sensor array 402 and the DAQ system 404. In one example, the cables may be Flexible Printed Cables (FPC) and the plug-in receptacle connector may be a FPC connector or Flat Flex connector (FFC).

[0063] As described previously, the DAQ system 404 may include a power source (such as the power source 302), a control module (such as the control module 104), a multiplexing module (such as the multiplexing module 106), a converter module (such as the converter module 214) and a storage module (such as the storage module 216). Moreover, the control module 104 may be electrically connected the power source 302, the converter module 214, and the storage module 216, as depicted in FIG. 3. In addition, the converter module 214 may be electrically connected to the multiplexing module 106, wherein the multiplexing module 106 is further electrically connected to the sensor array 402 and the power source 302.

[0064] The DAQ system 404 may further include a communication module (not shown in FIG. 4). The communication module may be electrically connected to the control module 104 and the storage module 216. The communication module may establish a data communication interface between the DAQ system 404 and a remote source. As would be understood, such data communication interface may be wired or wireless, and direct or via other communication means. Subsequently, the communication module handles transmission of data signals from the DAQ system 404 to the remote source. The remote source may be a server, a computing device associated with a user of the wearable electronic system 400, or a user device.

[0065] In operation, the control module 104 may determine a value of constant current, based on a rating of the sensors 406 of the sensor array 402. Based on the determined value, the power source 302 may be adjusted. The power source may include a programmable constant current source, wherein the programmable constant current source generates a constant current corresponding to the determined value regardless of source voltage or load resistance. The value of the constant current may be small to avoid self-heating of the DAQ system 404. The programmable constant current source may ensure flexible value of input current for different types of sensors, thereby enabling adaptability of the DAQ system 404 for different types of sensors or sensor arrays.

[0066] Continuing further, the control module 104 may select the first sensor 406A from the sensors 406 for acquiring sensor data during a first time period. Subsequently, the multiplexing module 106 may select a first channel associated with the first sensor to supply the constant current from the power source 302, during the first time period. Once the constant current is supplied to the first sensor 406A, the first sensor 406A may generate electrical signals, such as biomedical signals. The multiplexing module 106 may then read the electrical signals generated by the first sensor 406A. With the constant excitation current supplied to the first sensor 406A, the multiplexing module 106 may read an output voltage measurement and output current measurement across the first sensor 406A during the first time period.

[0067] Thereafter, the multiplexing module 106 may provide such electrical signals to the converter module 214. The converter module 214 may convert the analog electrical signals into digital signals having binary value and provides the digital signals to the control module 104.

[0068] The control module 104 may convert the digital signals into a ratiometric measurement. Specifically, the ratiometric measurement may be indicative of a resistance (Q) across the first sensor 406A. Based on the resistance across the first sensor 406A during the first time period, the control module may determine a first sensor output of the first sensor 406A. In one example, the first sensor output may correspond to a temperature associated with the first sensor 406A. In this manner, temperature of a surface corresponding to a location of the first sensor 406A may be determined during the first time period. The first sensor output may be stored in a log file, wherein the log file may be stored in the storage module 216.

[0069] In a similar manner, sensor output from other sensors 406 of the sensor array 402 may be determined during corresponding time periods. Additionally, the sensor output from other sensors 406 may be stored within the log file. Moreover, the log file may be transmitted over a wired or a wireless data communication interface to the remote source. In this regard, the communication module may handle the transmission of the log file and/or the sensor output to the remote source. The log file or the sensor output may be utilized for diagnosis or analysis purpose.

[0070] In one example, the DAQ system 404 may have a length in a range of 80mm to 150mm. Further, a width of the DAQ system 404 may be in a range of 30mm to 60mm. Additionally, a height of the DAQ system 404 may be in a range of 15mm to 35mm. Owing to compact size and robust hardware of the DAQ system 404 and precise data acquisition, the DAQ system 404 may be capable of medical applications. It may be noted that use of the DAQ system 404 for determining body temperature of the subject for detection of breast cancer disease is only illustrative and should not be construed as limiting in any way. Further, the DAQ system 300 may be used in many applications to acquire biomedical signals for calculating other physiological parameters, or other parameters.

[0071] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram depicting a method 500 for acquiring data from a sensor array, as per an example. The sensor array 102 may include a plurality of resistive sensors. The order in which the method 500 is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks may be combined in any order to implement the method 500, or an alternative method. Furthermore, method 500 may be implemented by a processing resource through any suitable hardware, non-transitory machine-readable instructions, or combination thereof.

[0072] At block 502, a programmable constant current source may be configured to generate a constant current based on the sensor array. In one example, a control module 10 may determine a value for constant current based on a rating of the plurality of resistive sensors of the sensor array 102. Further, the programmable constant current source may generate a constant current.

[0073] At block 504, a first sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors of the sensor array may be selected. In this regard, the control module 104 may select the first sensor from the sensors of the sensor array 102.

[0074] At block 506, a multiplexing module may be configured to read the first sensor for a first time period. Due to selection of the first sensor by the control module 104, a multiplexing module 106 may select a first channel associated with the first sensor. The multiplexing module 106 further supplies the constant current to the first channel. The plurality of resistive sensors other than the first sensor are non-operational during the first time period. Further, the multiplexing module 106 may read output electrical signals generated by the first sensor during the first time period. [0075] At block 508, a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor is determined. In an example, the multiplexing module 106 may provide the output electrical signals generated by the first sensor to the control module 104. In one example, the output electrical signals may include output voltage measurement and output current measurement, wherein a ratiometric measurement may be determined from the output voltage and current measurements. The ratiometric measurement may be used for determining a resistance across the first sensor, wherein the resistance may be indicative of temperature at a location associated with the first sensor. In this manner, the first sensor output for the first sensor in determined. In a similar manner, sensor output of other sensors of the sensor array 102 may be determined.

[0076] Although implementations of present subject matter have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methods, it is to be noted that the present subject matter is not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed and explained in the context of a few implementations for the present subject matter.

Claims

23 l/We Claim:

1 . A data acquisition system, the data acquisition (DAQ) system being coupled to a sensor array comprising a plurality of resistive sensors, the data acquisition system comprising: a multiplexing module coupled to the sensor array, and a control module coupled to the multiplexing module, wherein the control module is configured to: select a first sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors; cause the multiplexing module to read the first sensor for a first time period, wherein the plurality of resistive sensors other than the first sensor are non-operational during the first time period; determine a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor.

2. The data acquisition system as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a programmable constant current source coupled to the control module and the multiplexing module.

3. The data acquisition system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the control module is to: determine a value for constant current based on a type of the plurality of resistive sensors of the sensor array; and cause the programmable constant current source to generate the constant current, wherein the generated constant current is provided to the multiplexing module.

4. The data acquisition system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the multiplexing module is to: select a first channel associated with the first sensor; and read the first sensor by supplying a constant current generated by the programmable constant current source to the first sensor through the first channel for the first time period, wherein other channels associated with the plurality of other resistive sensors are in unpowered state.

5. The data acquisition system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the control module is further configured to: select a second sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors during a second time period, wherein the second time period occurs after the first time period; and cause the multiplexing module to read the second sensor during the second time period, wherein the plurality of resistive sensors other than the second sensor are non-operational during the second time period.

6. The data acquisition system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the control module is configured to: determine a ratiometric measurement corresponding to the first sensor; and determine the first sensor output, using the ratiometric measurement and a converter module.

7. The data acquisition system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the control module is configured to: time stamp the first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor; and store the time-stamped first sensor output in a log file.

8. The data acquisition system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of resistive sensors are configured to sense one of temperature, pressure, and humidity.

9. The data acquisition system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the constant current generated by the programmable constant current source is in a range of 250 Nano amperes to 1 milli amperes.

10. A wearable electronic system, the wearable electronic system comprising: a sensor array comprising a plurality of resistive sensors; a data acquisition (DAQ) system comprising: a multiplexing module coupled to the sensor array, and a control module coupled to the multiplexing module, wherein the control module is configured to: select a first sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors; cause the multiplexing module to read the first sensor for a first time period, wherein the plurality of resistive sensors other than the first sensor are non-operational during the first time period; and determine a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor, and a communication module coupled to the control module.

1 1 . The wearable electronic system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the DAQ system is coupled to the sensor array via at least one plug-in receptacle connector.

12. The wearable electronic system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the DAQ system comprises a converter module, and the converter module is configured to: acquire electrical signals corresponding to the first sensor from the multiplexing module; and 26 translate the analog electrical signal into digital signals for the first sensor.

13. The wearable electronic system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the communication module is configured to: establish a data communication interface between the DAQ system and a remote source; and transmit, to the remote source via the data communication interface, a log file comprising at least the first sensor output.

14. The wearable electronic system as claimed in claim 12, wherein the electrical signal corresponding to the first sensor is a biomedical signal.

15. A method comprising: configuring a programmable constant current source to generate a constant current based on a sensor array, the sensor array comprising a plurality of resistive sensors; selecting a first sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors; configuring a multiplexing module to read the first sensor for a first time period, wherein the plurality of resistive sensors other than the first sensor are non-operational during the first time period; and determining a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor.

16. The method as claimed in claim 15, the method further comprising: selecting a second sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors; configuring the multiplexing module to read the second sensor for a second time period, wherein the plurality of resistive sensors other than the second sensor are non-operational during the second time period; and determining a second sensor output corresponding to the second sensor. 27

17. The method as claimed in claim 15, the method comprising: determining a ratiometric measurement corresponding to the first sensor; and based on the ratiometric measurement, determining the first sensor output using one of a look-up table, or solving stein-hart equations.

18. The method as claimed in claim 15, the method further comprising: time stamping the first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor; storing the time-stamped first sensor output in a log file; and communicating the log file to a remote source.

19. A non-transient computer readable medium containing program instruction for causing a computer to perform the method for acquiring data from a sensor array, the sensor array comprising a plurality of resistive sensors, the method comprising: configuring a programmable constant current source to generate a constant current, based on the sensor array; selecting a first sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors; configuring a multiplexing module to read the first sensor for a first time period, wherein the plurality of resistive sensors other than the first sensor are deactivated during the first time period; and determining a first sensor output corresponding to the first sensor.

20. The non-transient computer readable medium as claimed in claim 19, the computer readable medium containing program instruction for causing a computer to perform the method for acquiring data from the sensor array, the method further comprising: selecting a second sensor from the plurality of resistive sensors; configuring the multiplexing module to activate the second sensor for a second time period, wherein the second time period is distinct from the 28 first time period, and wherein the plurality of resistive sensors other than the second sensor are non-operational during the second time period; and determining a second sensor output respective to the second sensor;