Objective  In order to solve the problem of difficult connection between the theoretical system of traditional Chinese medicine and modern science and technology, this paper proposes a simple, clear and extensible docking method of "theory of traditional Chinese medicine - detection equipment", and establishes the concept system of traditional Chinese medicine engineering that can be measured by modern science and technology. Methods The instrument measurement object of TCM syndrome was defined as the smallest measurement unit, which was described as the measurement element in TCM language and the measurement variable in engineering language.The measurement variables were logically independent and clearly defined, and the measurement variables and values were distinguished.Based on the concept of "syndrome elements" in modern TCM diagnostics, TCM syndrome variable types in literature were systematically sorted out to be TCM measurement .The system of variables provides reference. Results  The body information including five kinds of measurement variables was established: positioning variable, physiological variable, pathogenesis variable, school measurement variable and specialty measurement variable; and the measurement rules of each measurement variable were formulated, so that the instrument measurement signal could be connected with the basic theoretical system of traditional Chinese medicine through the interface of measurement elements and syndromes. Conclusions This study established an open interface system of TCM medical industry integration, which can promote the development and clinical use of TCM equipment.